Celebrity

Hugh Jackman, Jamie Oliver and Nigella Lawson lead tributes to Bill Granger

The chef passed away on Christmas Day.

Australian celebrity chef, restauranteur and writer Bill Granger has passed away aged 54. The beloved chef tragically passed on 25 December 2023 in a London hospital.

Bill is credited for raising the profile of Australian informal dining, and is renowned for his breakfast recipes. He wrote 14 cookbooks, made 5 TV series, and ran a successful global restaurant business. Most recently he was honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia in January 2023.

“He will be deeply missed by all, with his loss most profoundly felt by his adored family, who are grateful for all the love and support that has been given.,” his family said in a statement.

Tributes have been pouring in for the beloved chef since the news of his death was announced.

Among these tributes are touching words from Aussie actor Hugh Jackman, and chefs Jamie Oliver and Nigella Lawson.

Bill tragically passed away on Christmas Day 2023, aged 54.

(Credit: Getty.)

Hugh Jackman and Deborra Lee-Furness released a joint tribute to Bill Granger via Hugh’s Instagram story. The statement wrote, “We are devastated to hear of the news of Bill’s passing. His talent, his joie de vivre, the way he brought people together, and his commitment to family were inspiring. We will miss his friendship most of all. Our love goes out to Natalie and their 3 incredible daughters Edie, Ines and Bunny. Rest in peace. Deb & Hugh”

“This is devastating news, im so sad to hear this, what a guy he was …. a wonderful human, kind calm soul….i admired everything he represented in food I remember the first time I met him many moons ago he couldn’t have been nicer and his food so good …. Sending so much love to all his family 🙏🏼 rest in peace, Bill, he will be sorely missed jo x x x”, Jamie Oliver wrote underneath the announcement from Bill’s family.

“I’m heartbroken to hear this. So cruel. Deepest love to N, E, I and B 🖤,” Nigella Lawson added.

Bill shared three daughters with his wife, Natalie.

(Credit: Getty.)

Former MasterChef judge Matt Preston also shared a tribute, saying, “So sorry to hear this news. Bill was a geniunely lovely bloke and an inspiration. He (with Natalie by his side) helped shape the image of modern Australian food around the world.”

British chef James Martin also offered his condolences, sharing, “So shocked The world has lost a special person a brilliant man and talent… my thoughts and prayers to his family … a wonderful man gone too soon …J xx”.

“Devastating .. Wonderful father and husband. Wonderful man!! Ray of Aussie sunshine W11 Thoughts are with Nat Edie Ines and Bunny. X,” Australian actor Jason Donovan wrote in his tribute to Bill.

Gwyneth Paltrow also shared her condolences, saying, “Oh my goodness, this is so heartbreaking! Love to you all❤️”.

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