Renowned Chef Skye Gyngell Passes Away at 62 in London

Australian Michelin star chef Skye Gyngell has died in London at the age of 62. Gyngell, renowned for her culinary excellence and advocacy for sustainable farming, had battled a rare form of skin cancer for approximately 18 months, which ultimately spread to her salivary glands. Her illness significantly impacted her life, including the loss of her sense of taste, which she described as a profound personal challenge.

In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, Spring London, the restaurant Gyngell founded, expressed deep sorrow over her passing. The establishment highlighted her role as one of the early advocates for British farmers, stating, “Skye was far more than a chef — or, as she preferred to say, a cook. She was a mentor, an anchor and a force who helped so many of us find our place in what we do.” The statement also emphasized her cherished roles as a mother to her daughters, Holly and Evie, and grandmother to Cyprien.

Gyngell’s death occurred just days after the passing of her mother, Ann Gyngell, a respected designer and decorator in Sydney. Skye Gyngell trained in both Sydney and Paris, eventually establishing herself as one of Britain’s most celebrated chefs. She gained significant recognition at Petersham Nurseries in London, where she became the first Australian woman to earn a Michelin star.

Her culinary philosophy centered around the farm-to-plate concept, emphasizing sustainability and the use of seasonal produce. Notable figures in the culinary world have expressed their condolences. British chef Jamie Oliver called her death “terribly sad news,” praising her as an “amazing woman and incredible cook.” Food writer and television personality Nigella Lawson commented on the shock of her passing, stating, “However ill you know someone to be, their death is always a shock. It’s just awful that Skye is no longer in the world.”

Australian chef Kylie Kwong also praised Gyngell as “one of the greatest cooks,” reflecting the high regard in which she was held by her peers. In May 2023, Gyngell shared with the Financial Times the emotional toll of losing her sense of taste, describing it as a greater challenge in her personal life than in her professional career. “I have been a chef for 40 years, I know what works on a plate. It was more the sadness that I might never be able to enjoy food again,” she explained.

In a moving tribute, one of Gyngell’s daughters, Holly Gore, recounted their final days together, expressing admiration for her mother’s unwavering strength throughout her illness. “For a year and a half, you fought with everything you had — your strength was undeniable, as it always had been,” she wrote, highlighting the depth of their bond during such a challenging time.

Skye Gyngell’s legacy endures through her contributions to the culinary world and the lives she touched. The outpouring of love and respect from colleagues and fans alike serves as a testament to her remarkable impact on both the food industry and those who knew her.