Celebrity chef Gary Rhodes died at the age of 59 in Dubai on Tuesday. His friend has revealed the last conversation they had while they were filming an upcoming television series together.
British chef Vineet Bhatia, who owns restaurants in Dubai and London, said that he had heard that Gary had died from slipping and falling in the shower.
He told the Daily Mail: “I have been told by friends in Dubai that he slipped and banged his head and was then taken to hospital.
“I wish I could have been there for him. He was such a lovely man. So friendly and enjoying his life.”
He continued to say that he had told him that “life couldn’t be better”.
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They revealed that he died following collapsing at his home and suffering bleeding on the brain.
The statement read: “In order to end painful speculation surrounding the sudden passing of our beloved Gary Rhodes OBE, the Rhodes family can confirm that after a successful day shooting with Rock Oyster Media for ITV here in Dubai, Gary returned home in a very happy mood for a peaceful evening with his wife Jennie.
“After dinner, Gary unfortunately collapsed in their residence and was rushed to hospital but unfortunately passed away due to subdural hematoma.
“At this time, there are no other details and the family would again request privacy around this very tragic loss and again, thank friends and family for their ongoing support at this time.”
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Fellow celebrity chef Jamie Oliver posted his own tribute on Instagram the day Gary’s death was announced, saying he died from a “tragic fall”. The post was deleted and replaced without that comment in.
The original caption said: “Sadly Chef Gary Rhodes OBE passed away after a tragic fall.
“My heartfelt sympathies to his wife, kids, friends and family, sending love and thought.
“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.”