Renowned chef Rick Stein has opened up about the life-saving heart surgery he underwent, sharing candid insights about how he once feared he would be dead before making the drastic decision. Appearing on ITV's Good Morning Britain this past Tuesday, February 25, Stein discussed his long-spanning culinary career and the serious health challenges he faced.
At 78 years old, Stein has been suffering from breathlessness for several years, which eventually led to dire medical advice: without surgery, his life was at risk. The celebrated chef underwent heart surgery at the Royal Brompton Hospital last year, after test results from his echocardiogram (ECG) revealed his deteriorated condition, particularly concerning his failing aorta.
During the engaging interview, host Susanna Reid posed thoughtful questions about his perspective on life post-surgery, asking, "I know your feeling is, 'I'm healthy, I'm well, I look forward,' but do you, sort of, just sometimes think, 'Goodness me, it could have gone another way?'" Stein responded frankly: "To be honest, Susanna, if I hadn't of had it, I'd be dead." His honesty about the surgery and its ramifications struck chords with viewers, as he reflected on how precarious life can be.
Rick humorously shared another perspective from when he was interviewed post-surgery by The Times: "It's funny because afterwards I did this interview for The Times, and the guy said, 'How are you?' and I said, 'I'm extremely well, with the best will in the world, and I'm feeling really well, but I can only live another 20 years, right?' But they cut out the last bit because I said, 'I'm gonna die, you know.'" His candidness led co-host Richard Madeley to chime in, "Well, you're still going strong!"
Stein's openness about his health is commendable, and it contrasts sharply with his excitement about the future. He expressed thrill for his upcoming tour, titled An Evening with Rick Stein, which starts on March 2 at the Theatre Royal in Brighton and wraps up at Kendal's Leisure Centre on March 15. Stein has aimed for 11 dates nationwide to share stories reflecting his nearly 50 years of culinary experiences.
During the discussion about the tour, Stein noted how his prior experience turned out to be successful: "I did it this time last year, and it was successful, basically. I think most of the audience knows me from all the television programmes, so it's sort of like talking to people." Rick compared his performances to stand-up comedy but acknowledged the difference: "It's not like being a stand-up comedian and having to say you're actually funny - people know who I am."
Though Stein describes himself as shy, he remarked with surprise at his ability to engage audiences with his anecdotes: "It surprises me because I'm quite shy, and I'm quite good at anecdotes on stage." His remarks invite admiration, showing not only vulnerability concerning his health but also vigor and passion for engaging with fans through storytelling.
Stein's narrative of overcoming adversity through surgery and moving forward with enthusiasm for his career offers inspiration. By discussing his challenges honestly, he reminds us all of the importance of health and having the courage to confront our fears.
He ended the interview with optimism, murmuring about the things he looks forward to post-surgery, leaving the viewers with not just heartwarming reflections but also a newfound appreciation for life’s delicate balance.