CHEF, television personality, and artist Peter Russell-Clarke has died aged 89, leaving behind a lasting legacy in kitchens and homes across the country.
Russell-Clarke passed away on July 4, 2025, in Melbourne, surrounded by his family, after suffering a stroke.
Best known for his down-to-earth style and cheeky personality, Russell-Clarke became a household name in the 1980s as the host of Come and Get It, a popular five-minute cooking segment that ran on ABC TV for nearly a decade. His signature catchphrases like “G’day” and “You beaut!” became iconic, and his approachable cooking style resonated with Australians from all walks of life.
Born in Ballarat in 1935, Russell-Clarke’s early life was marked by hardship, including time spent in foster care and periods of homelessness as a youth in Melbourne. Despite these challenges, he carved out an extraordinary career—first as a cartoonist and illustrator, then as one of Australia’s first celebrity chefs. He authored nearly 40 cookbooks, cooked for royalty, and represented Australia as a food ambassador with the United Nations.
While many remember him from television, those close to him knew him as a passionate artist and a proud resident of Tooborac, where he spent many of his later years painting and enjoying a quieter life. His creativity extended beyond the kitchen, with his artwork and illustrations featuring in newspapers, books, and galleries. He was a regular contributor to local publications.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Jan, and their two children, Peter and Wendy.
Peter Russell-Clarke’s influence on Australian food culture cannot be overstated. His charm, wit, and love of fresh, simple ingredients inspired generations to get into the kitchen—and have a laugh while doing it. His passing marks the end of a truly colourful era, but his legacy will continue to live on in cookbooks, memories, and meals shared.
