TV chef Si King has opened up about the profound challenges he has faced in the months following the death of his beloved co-star and friend, Dave Myers. Known to fans as part of the iconic cooking duo the Hairy Bikers, King described his grief and the emotional turmoil that has accompanied the loss of Myers, who passed away in February at the age of 66 after battling cancer.
In a heartfelt first-person article for The Sunday Times, King, 57, candidly shared his feelings of despair, revealing that he has often found himself on the brink of abandoning everything. “I’ll be honest with you, the past few months have been a struggle,” King stated. He acknowledged the overwhelming urge to “jump on my bike and head into the sunset,” escaping the pain of loss. He contemplated leaving without telling anyone where he was going, wishing to “clear off and never come back.”
King’s struggle is not just rooted in the sadness of losing a dear friend but also in the frustration and anger directed toward the circumstances surrounding Myers’ illness. He expressed feelings of rage against the disease that took his friend and against God for allowing it to happen. As people began to inquire about his next steps and what the future held for him, King emphasized his need for reflection during this difficult time.
“The answer is I am going to take some time to reflect on the life I had with my best mate and think about moving forward,” he explained. In doing so, he highlighted that this is precisely what Myers would have wanted for him: to look ahead and not dwell on the past. King’s words resonate with a sense of determination to honor his friend’s legacy by continuing to move forward.
In June, the biking community rallied together to pay tribute to Myers during the first “Dave Day,” a memorial motorcycle ride that saw thousands of motorcyclists travel from London to Myers’ hometown of Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria. This event highlighted the impact Myers had not only on King but on countless fans and fellow bikers who admired the duo’s adventurous spirit and cooking talents.
As he navigates through his grief, King has also been busy working on new projects. He revealed plans for an anthology of classic Hairy Bikers recipes, a project that would undoubtedly resonate with fans of their culinary adventures. Furthermore, he hinted at “a few new projects on the horizon,” suggesting that he is finding ways to channel his energy and creativity in meaningful directions.
Yet, King remains grounded in the simplicity of life. “But even if I end up doing nothing more than making bacon sarnies and playing a few gigs with my band, that’s fine by me. Happy days,” he remarked. This sentiment reflects a profound acceptance of life’s unpredictability and an acknowledgment that joy can be found in the little things, even amid sorrow.
Looking back on their last series together, King described it as “by far the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do in my life.” He recounted how Myers’ illness was visibly challenging, yet when the cameras rolled, Myers maintained his fighting spirit. “He’d have his dukes up, ready for a scrap,” King recalled, illustrating the resilience and courage Myers exhibited throughout his battle with cancer.
The bond between King and Myers extends beyond their television persona; it was built on decades of friendship and shared experiences. King’s reflections are not just a tribute to Myers but a reminder of the deep connections that can exist in life, as well as the pain of losing someone who was not just a colleague but a true companion.
As King continues to navigate this challenging chapter of his life, he exemplifies the spirit of resilience and the importance of cherishing memories. He remains committed to honoring Myers by keeping their shared legacy alive through their work, their love for cooking, and their passion for adventure.
In a world where grief can often feel isolating, King’s willingness to share his struggles and his journey toward healing serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of loss, it is possible to find a way forward. Whether through new projects, culinary endeavors, or simply enjoying life’s small pleasures, King is determined to keep the spirit of the Hairy Bikers alive, ensuring that their adventures continue to inspire others.
Through this challenging period, King not only reflects on his past but also embraces the future, a testament to the enduring bond he shared with Myers. In doing so, he honors the legacy of their friendship while looking toward new horizons. As he prepares to move forward, King’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the everlasting impact of friendship, demonstrating that even amid struggle, one can find the strength to carry on.
