Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Olivier have led tributes to Gary Rhodes.
The TV chef has praised the late star, who passed away yesterday (26.11.19) aged 59, saying he was a "fantastic chef" who "put British cuisine on the map".
He wrote on Twitter: "We lost a fantastic chef today in Gary Rhodes. He was a chef who put British Cuisine on the map. Sending all the love and prayers to your wife and kids. You’ll be missed Gx (sic)"
Jamie took to Instagram to heap praise on Gary, admitting he was a huge inspiration to him during his younger years.
He wrote: "Sadly Chef Gary Rhodes OBE passed away. My heart felt sympathies to his wife , kids, friends and family, sending love and thoughts ….. Gary was a fantastic chef and incredible ambassador for British cooking, he was a massive inspiration to me as a young chef. He reimagined modern British cuisine with elegance and fun. rest in peace Chef (sic)"
Chef James Martin also admitted Gary played a massively "influential" part on his career.
He wrote: "Hugely influential in my life and the life of the British food scene. Gent and genius…RIP Gary, I can’t believe you’re gone
Former ‘Ready Steady Cook’ host Ainsley Harriott praised Gary, who died in Dubai, as a "true culinary icon".
He tweeted: "So sad to hear the news about Gary Rhodes. A true culinary icon and a lovely man. Sending my love and thoughts to his wife Jennie and their boys. RIP, my friend. xx (sic)"
Tom Kerridge has been left "deeply shocked" by the news of Gary’s death.
He wrote: "1/2 I’m deeply shocked and hugely saddened to hear the tragic news about Gary Rhodes. He is one of the greatest British chefs who almost single handedly put British food on the world stage. Taking simple ingredients, embracing classic dishes & making something world class
"2/2 Many chefs have been through his kitchen, myself included. I consider it to be an honour to have stood alongside him at the pass. My thoughts go out to family and close friends for their huge loss. (sic)"
Gary – who fronted the likes of ‘MasterChef’, ‘MasterChef USA’, and ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ – passed away with his wife Jennie by his side.
His family said in a statement: "The Rhodes family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved husband, father and brother, Gary Rhodes OBE.
"Gary passed away last evening, Tuesday 26th November 2019, at the age of 59, with his beloved wife Jennie by his side.
"The family would like to thank everyone for their support and ask for privacy during this time."
Gordon Ramsay leads Gary Rhodes tributes
