Fred Sirieix, the beloved maître d' from Channel 4's First Dates, has announced an unexpected career move: he is writing a cosy crime book series set in restaurants. The first book will be set in London and feature a French inspector, drawing from his own life experiences.
Speaking from his garden in South London, Sirieix also revealed he will star in his first-ever French TV show, where he rescues failing restaurants. Additionally, viewers can see him in the new Channel 4 programme 'Fred's Ultimate Hotels' at the end of August, visiting four prestigious hotels worldwide.
Personal Life and Family
Sirieix, 54, married his wife, affectionately known as 'Fruitcake', in Negril, Jamaica, last February. He says marriage hasn't changed their relationship, emphasising the need to work at it constantly. He enjoys their cultural differences, noting humorous moments like cooking fish together.
His daughter, Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix, is an Olympic diver who won bronze for Team GB at the Paris 2024 Olympics. He is preparing to watch her compete at the European Championships in Paris. His son Lucien is taking A-levels and loves basketball.
Passion for Gardening and French Lifestyle
Sirieix is an avid gardener, growing French climbing beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, and courgettes. He says his greenhouse is his best purchase, bringing him immense happiness. He is even aiming for a gold medal at the Chelsea Flower Show.
He is backing a campaign with cheese brand Boursin, encouraging Brits to adopt a relaxed French approach to summer entertaining. He recalls his childhood in Limoges, where his parents, both nurses, hosted large parties and taught him the importance of hospitality and doing one's job well.
Health and Fitness
Despite his lifelong devotion to sport, Sirieix admits maintaining fitness is harder at 54. He now swims more, exercises gently, and takes time to recover, noting he began to physically age at 48. He emphasises the importance of keeping moving.
Sirieix and Fruitcake plan a road trip in Jamaica in January, hitchhiking around the island, despite warnings about safety. He dismisses such concerns, saying he loves the people and embraces adventure.
