Tomasz Jakubiak, a beloved chef and prominent juror on the culinary competition show "MasterChef," has passed away at the age of 41. The news of his death was shared by his family on April 30, 2025, through social media, where they expressed their deep sorrow, stating, "With great pain, we inform you that Tomek Jakubiak has passed away — a beloved dad, husband, chef, and a man whose heart beat for others — at home, at the table, in everyday life. His departure has left a void that cannot be described in words. The family asks for full respect for their privacy during this extremely difficult time."
Jakubiak had been battling a rare and aggressive cancer, which he publicly disclosed in September 2024. His illness was particularly challenging to treat, affecting his intestines, duodenum, and pelvic bones. Despite undergoing intensive treatment, including therapies in Israel and Greece, Jakubiak could not overcome the disease. His family noted that he fought valiantly, supported by love from his family, friends, and fans.
In a poignant tribute, his sister, Joanna Jakubiak, shared a black-and-white photo of her brother on Instagram, captioning it simply with the word "Braciszku," which translates to "little brother." This heartfelt message resonated with many, as fans and followers flooded the post with comments expressing their condolences and sharing memories of Jakubiak's impact on their lives. One commenter reflected, "My heart broke into a million pieces, even though I didn’t know Mr. Tomek personally. He had that something that made you want to hug him... My condolences to his wife, son, and the entire family."
Jakubiak's death has evoked an outpouring of grief from his colleagues and friends in the culinary world. Many took to social media to share their memories and express their sorrow. Prominent figures such as Jakob Kosel and Hanna Lis recalled their experiences with him, with Lis stating, "You fought until the end. You will be greatly missed, Tomek." Magda Gessler, another well-known chef, echoed this sentiment, saying, "We cry here on earth... Goodbye, Tomek, you lived fully..."
Jakubiak’s journey through illness was marked by his openness and gratitude towards his supporters. Just five days before his death, he had communicated with his fans, thanking them for their ongoing support. His social media presence had become a source of inspiration for many, as he shared updates on his health and expressed hope for recovery.
Throughout his career, Jakubiak was known for his passion for cooking and his commitment to promoting Polish cuisine. He gained fame not only as a juror on "MasterChef" but also as a host of various culinary programs, including "Jakubiak lokalnie" on Kuchnia+. His culinary journey began in his teenage years, and he honed his skills working in notable kitchens, including one of Magda Gessler's first restaurants.
Jakubiak was also an accomplished author, having written several cookbooks, including "Jakubiak lokalnie" (2015), "Z miłości do lokalności," and "Ugotuj mi, tato," the latter co-authored with his sister Joanna, with proceeds directed towards his medical treatment. His contributions to the culinary arts extended beyond the kitchen; he was a vocal advocate for local producers and ingredients, emphasizing the importance of regional cuisine.
In a statement reflecting on his legacy, Jakubiak once said, "Family, friends, cooking, and feeding others are my greatest life values. I am a total lucky guy because my passion has become my way of life." This philosophy guided him throughout his life and career, leaving a lasting impact on those who encountered him, whether in person or through his television appearances.
As the culinary community mourns the loss of Tomasz Jakubiak, his memory will undoubtedly live on through the countless lives he touched. His journey was not just about cooking but about sharing love and joy through food. Jakubiak's determination in the face of adversity served as an inspiration to many, reminding everyone of the power of community and support.
In the wake of his passing, tributes continue to pour in, with many expressing disbelief and sorrow over the loss of such a vibrant personality in the culinary world. As fans and friends remember him, they celebrate not just his culinary achievements but the warmth and light he brought into the lives of those around him.
The impact of Tomasz Jakubiak will be felt for years to come, as both a talented chef and a compassionate human being. His legacy will inspire future generations of chefs and food lovers, ensuring that his passion for cooking and his love for others are never forgotten.
