Chris Wheeler, a London chef who appeared on television programmes including Great British Menu and Saturday Kitchen, was found dead in a graveyard in West London after his wife reported him missing, an inquest has heard.
The 52-year-old, who most recently served as executive chef at The Hurlingham Club, was discovered by a groundsman at Brompton Cemetery on the morning of 27 February 2026. His wife had reported him missing at 7.45am on 25 February 2026.
Open conclusion recorded
Jean Harkin, Assistant Coroner at Inner West London Coroner's Court, recorded an open conclusion into his death, meaning the full circumstances remain unclear. The coroner stated that it was not evident whether he intended to take his own life.
Mrs Harkin told the inquest that Wheeler "had a history of mental health problems". She added: "There was no note left by Christopher indicating any intention to self-harm", and he did not have a history of self-harming.
Cause of death and family tribute
A post-mortem examination established that his cause of death was asphyxiation and the harmful effect of drugs including ketamine. The coroner stated there was no evidence he had been dependent on any of these substances. Police determined there was no third-party involvement in his death.
Mrs Harkin delivered a statement from Wheeler's family, which read: "He was passionate about two things above all else - his work as a chef and his family. He knew from a young age he wanted to become a chef."
His family said "the profession demanded long hours, commitment and sacrifice, but he never complained", and he was described by those who knew him as an "exceptionally talented chef". The statement continued: "He worked incredibly hard and achieved so much during his career. He was a perfectionist and took immense pride in his work. Although his career left him with little free time, he always made sure to dedicate time to his family and the family have wonderful memories."
Wheeler shared two daughters with his wife Simona, who attended the inquest alongside his brother Simon. The family added: "Above all, he loved his family and adored his daughters and he considered them to be the greatest achievement in life. He was a true gentleman, the best dad and partner they could wish for, and they feel incredibly blessed to have had him in their lives."
Wheeler had previously appeared in the 2016 TV series of Great British Menu and gained recognition for his charitable fundraising efforts by completing the London marathon dressed as a chef while flipping a pancake in 2006.
