Remembering Dave Myers: The Hairy Biker Who Captured Hearts

The Loss of a Television Icon

Television chef Dave Myers, best known as one half of the Hairy Bikers, sadly died following a battle with cancer at the age of 66. Myers passed away on the evening of Wednesday, 28 February 2024, surrounded by his family and co-star Si King. The news was announced by King through a heartfelt statement on the Hairy Bikers’ website, marking the end of an era for millions of fans worldwide.

The significance of Myers’ death extends beyond the loss of a television personality. He was a figure who brought joy, warmth, and authenticity to British television screens for over two decades. Myers, from Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria, first revealed he had cancer in May 2022, on a podcast he co-hosts with King, and throughout his treatment, he remained characteristically open and positive with his audience.

A Legacy Built on Friendship and Food

Myers found fame 20 years ago as part of the Hairy Bikers, alongside Si King, originally presenting The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook on the BBC before going on to present numerous cookery and travel shows. Myers started his working life as a make-up artist and met King while working on a TV drama called The Gambling Man, with their first TV appearance together being The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook in 2004.

The duo’s unique blend of motorcycle culture and cooking expertise resonated with audiences across the UK and beyond. The pair was famed for their love of cookery and motor bikes, fronting shows such as The Hairy Bikers’ Food Tour of Britain and becoming well known for their exuberance for food, people and each other. Their genuine friendship and infectious enthusiasm made viewers feel like part of their journey.

Tributes and a Lasting Impact

The outpouring of grief following Myers’ death demonstrated his profound impact on British culture. In his emotional announcement, King said he was ‘not sure I can put into words on how I feel at the moment’, adding, ‘my best friend is on a journey that for now, I can’t follow’. The sentiment captured the hearts of fans worldwide who felt they had lost a friend themselves.

A memorial motorcycle ride took place on 7 April 2024, when about 6,000 bikers rode from Beverley in East Riding of Yorkshire to Scarborough in North Yorkshire, to pay tribute and raise funds for Cancer Research UK. On 8 June 2024, thousands of bikers travelled from London to Myers’ home town of Barrow-in-Furness for ‘Dave Day’, organised by his wife Lili, with the event raising money for NSPCC Childline and The Institute of Cancer Research.

A Life Remembered

Dave Myers leaves behind a remarkable legacy that extends far beyond television. Myers leaves behind wife Lili and two stepchildren. His impact on British television, his contribution to making cooking accessible and joyful, and his courage in facing his illness with dignity have ensured that he will be remembered fondly by millions. For those who followed his adventures, Dave Myers was more than a television chef—he was a friend who invited us all along for the ride.