Dave Myers’ death earlier this week left fans heartbroken, with the one half of the iconic Hairy Bikers chefs having opened up on his cancer battle almost two years ago.
The 66-year-old revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer in May 2022, and went on to talk about living with the illness and receiving treatment during recent television appearances.
Myers’ cooking co-star Si King announced the news on Thursday that his "best friend" had died in a heartbreaking statement on social media.
While Myers had opened up about his health at various points, he never unveiled which type of cancer he had been diagnosed with.
One of his recent television appearances at the end of last year was in The Hairy Bikers: Coming Home for Christmas. The touching show saw the duo hosting a banquet as a thank you to those who had cared for Myers in hospital.
The episode also included candid interviews with Myers as he talked about his illness. At one point, he addressed how he had chosen not to disclose what type of cancer he had with the public.
Dave never disclosed which form of cancer he'd been diagnosed with
ITV
“I feel like that’s my business,” he explained, adding: “I don’t want newspapers to run a lottery on how long I’ve got to live.
“That’s not what I want. I felt so guilty because of the effects it’s having on my wife.”
Speaking to The Guardian in an earlier interview from 2022, he also stated he didn’t want to be “judged”.
"Everybody then goes Googling, everybody becomes an amateur doctor,” the late chef reflected.
The Hairy Bikers made a recent TV appearance last Christmas
BBC
“And I don’t want to be judged – yet,” before adding: “A huge inconvenience is the best way to describe it."
Myers’ close pal and co-star King took to social media on Thursday to share the sad news of Myers’ death with fans.
He wrote: “Most of you will know Dave has been fighting cancer for the past couple of years.
"Last night, on 28th February 2024, with Lili, Dave’s wife, his family, close friend David and myself by his side, he passed away peacefully at home.
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Si King paid a heartbreaking tribute to his late friend while announcing his death
BBC
"All who knew Dave are devastated at his passing. His beloved wife brought him such happiness as did her children, Iza and Sergiu who Dave loved like his own. Personally, I am not sure I can put into words on how I feel at the moment.
"My best friend is on a journey that for now, I can’t follow. I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime.
"I wish you god’s speed brother; you are and will remain a beacon in this world. See you on the other side. Love ya.”
Since the announcement was made, more of Myers' friends, fans and co-stars have paid touching tributes to him, taking to social media to share their sadness over the news.
