Si King, born in Kibblesworth, Gateshead, has been a prominent figure in the culinary television landscape, best known as one half of the duo known as the Hairy Bikers. His journey began in the early 1990s when he first met Dave Myers on the set of a Catherine Cookson TV drama. Their friendship blossomed into a successful partnership that would see them travel an astonishing 650,000 miles together while creating their beloved cooking shows.
In a recent episode of Desert Island Discs, Si King reflected on his life and career, sharing personal insights and memories that shaped him. He selected The Chieftains track ‘Boil the Breakfast Early’ as a disc to remind him of his parents, revealing the deep emotional connections that music holds for him. This selection comes against the backdrop of profound loss, as King has been navigating life after the death of his long-time partner, Dave Myers, who passed away in 2024 from cancer at the age of 66.
King’s grief for Myers has been described as private, yet he openly acknowledged the impact of their shared experiences. “We grieved at the stovetop,” he said, illustrating how their bond extended beyond professional collaboration to a deep personal friendship. The duo’s journey together was not just about cooking; it was about life, love, and the challenges they faced along the way.
Reflecting on their time together, King noted, “It was all about the fight [against Myers’ condition], and keeping it [life] going, keeping the wheels on as far as we could, because clearly, they had come off.” This statement encapsulates the resilience they both exhibited in the face of adversity, a theme that resonated throughout their shows and endeared them to audiences.
The first-ever Dave Day took place in 2024 to honor Myers, serving as a testament to the legacy they built together. King described the event as “pretty cathartic,” emphasizing that it was a simple expression of love and affection for both Myers and the Hairy Bikers as a collective. This celebration of their friendship and partnership highlights the profound impact they had on each other’s lives and the lives of their fans.
Si King’s journey has not been without its challenges. After gaining weight, he was sent to Weight Watchers by his mother, a pivotal moment that led him to embrace a healthier lifestyle. He humorously recalled taking two and a half hours to make a cup of tea during his recovery from surgery, a reflection of the slow and often difficult path to healing.
As King continues to navigate his grief and honor Myers’ memory, he remains committed to sharing their story and the joy of cooking with audiences. Observers note that his resilience and dedication to their shared legacy will likely inspire many as he forges ahead in his career.
Details remain unconfirmed about future projects, but it is clear that Si King’s journey, intertwined with the memory of Dave Myers, will continue to resonate with fans and followers of the Hairy Bikers.
