Iconic Australian television chef, author, and artist Peter Russell-Clarke has passed away at the age of 89. His family confirmed he died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday due to complications from a stroke.
Early Life and Career
Born in Ballarat in 1935, Peter Russell-Clarke began his career at just 14, working as a junior artist at an advertising agency. He later became a freelance cartoonist and food consultant for popular magazines like New Idea and Woman’s Day. This multi-talented chef went on to author numerous cookbooks and became famous for his 1980s ABC cooking show, Come and Get It. Known for its catchy “g’days” and Peter’s signature neckerchief, the show aired from 1983 to 1992, producing nearly 900 episodes.
Russell-Clarke’s role on Come and Get It cemented his place as one of Australia’s first TV celebrity chefs. Reflecting on his fame, he once said, “I realised the person on camera got more applause than the writer. So I wrote myself into the series.”
A Culinary Icon
Over his career, Russell-Clarke was a passionate advocate for healthy eating and Australian produce. From the mid-1970s, he served as a spokesperson for the Australian Dairy Corporation and worked with major brands like the Australian Egg Board and Kraft Cheese. In 1977, he cooked for the Prince of Wales’s Silver Jubilee dinner, and he was often invited to prepare meals for Australian prime ministers and even the Duke of Edinburgh.
Peter Russell-Clarke authored at least 35 cookbooks and was recognized as a United Nations food ambassador. His passion for fresh, local ingredients and farm-to-table eating inspired countless Australians.
A Talented Artist
Beyond his fame as a chef, Peter Russell-Clarke was also an accomplished artist. He painted for over 65 years and even worked as a political cartoonist for The Herald in Melbourne for a decade. His artwork was showcased in exhibitions across Australia and internationally, with pieces collected by institutions like the National Immigration Museum and the Shepparton Art Museum. He was also commissioned by the federal government for various projects.
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In 2022, Russell-Clarke reflected on the link between his art and cooking: “With painting, you’re working with colour, form, and texture. With cooking, you’re doing the same thing.”
Legacy and Family
Peter Russell-Clarke leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of Australia’s most beloved chefs and artists. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Jan, their two children, Peter and Wendy, and three grandchildren.
His contributions to Australian cuisine, art, and culture will not be forgotten. From inspiring healthier eating habits to promoting local ingredients, Peter Russell-Clarke truly left his mark on Australia.
