Dave Myers' touching message in final TV appearance on Hairy Bikers before his death
Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers declared “it’s good to be alive” in one of his final TV appearances before his death.
In a statement, his co-star Simon ‘Si’ King said the presenter, who had been diagnosed with cancer in 2022, “passed away peacefully at home” on Wednesday night aged 66.
Ahead of his death, Myers shared a now heartbreaking message with viewers on their BBC2 series, The Hairy Bikers Go West, which follows the pair on a journey from Scotland to Devon.
The pair referenced his cancer battle in one recent episode which saw Myers return to his native North West.
57-year-old King expressed: “It’s great getting back here with my best mate.
“We didn’t think 18 months ago that we’d be on the bikes again wandering around Dave’s backyard and it’s wonderful that we are.
Myers pictured with Si King on their current BBC2 series before his death (BBC/South Shore Productions/Jon Boast)
Speaking to camera, Myers echoed his friend’s sentiment and poignantly said: “It’s been glorious. The motorcycling’s been glorious.
“What can I say, it feels so good to be alive.”
In another episode of the seven-part series, Myers revealed that he was diagnosed with anorexia amid his cancer treatment but his weight had stabilised.
He told King: “At one point I was diagnosed as anorexic. Can you believe it after all the dieting we’ve done? But yeah, I’m doing alright now, I’m living with it. My weight’s stable so whatever I’m doing, I’ll carry on with it.”Myers, best known as one half of the Hairy Bikers, death was confirmed by King on Thursday.
The TV star did not specify what type of cancer he had after announcing he was undergoing chemotherapy in May 2022.
Confirming his friend’s passing, King penned on their shared social media account: “Hi everyone, I’m afraid I bear some sad news.
“Most of you will know Dave has been fighting cancer for the past couple of years.
“Last night, on 28th February 2024, with Lili, Dave’s wife, his family, close friend David and myself by his side, he passed away peacefully at home.
“All who knew Dave are devastated at his passing. His beloved wife brought him such happiness as did her children, Iza and Sergiu who Dave loved like his own.
“Personally, I am not sure I can put into words on how I feel at the moment.
“My best friend is on a journey that for now, I can’t follow. I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime.
“I wish you god’s speed brother; you are and will remain a beacon in this world. See you on the other side. Love ya.”
In 1995, Myers met his long-time co-presenter King on the set of a TV drama, and they went on to build a friendship and successful career together.
Their combination of riding their motorcycles to locations across the world and cooking up a storm as they went earned them a loyal following.
Their first show, The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook, was launched on the BBC in 2006 and saw them ride across countries including Portugal, Romania and Namibia, tasting the local cuisine and experimenting with making it themselves.
The bearded duo went on to film many other series and specials for the broadcaster, seeking out new dishes in countries such as India, Vietnam, Argentina and Mexico.
They also sampled cuisines of places nearer to home, such as Ireland and the Isle of Man.
Across their career they published more than 30 cookbooks together.
Following his diagnosis, Myers briefly took a break from work before filming his last show with King, who said it would be one they would “always remember”.
“We are very privileged to do what we do and I think this one was particularly special in general because of Dave’s health and his sheer and utter determination and love for what he does”, he added.
“Especially to continue to do it while he was having treatment took remarkable courage and energy – and adds to why Dave and I will not forget it.”
The 57-year-old presenter said the travelogue was “a celebration of a joyous and creative friendship” and he was happy they returned to his co-presenter’s original home of Lancashire during the series.
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