MasterChef winner found dead aged 37 as Turkish police launch investigation

| Live News reporter Published July 31, 2026 3:37pm Updated July 31, 2026 4:26pm Eren Kaşıkç, who won the Turkish version of Master in 2021, has died unexpectedly (Picture: Instagram/kizilsakalinmutfag) MasterChef winner Eren Kaşıkç was found dead at his home by a friend this week. The 37-year-old was known for winning the Turkish edition of the cookery show in 2021. He later returned for an All Stars series. He also opened his own restaurant, Kızıl Sakal Sandwich & Burger, shortly after his victory and had plans to expand to a second eatery in Pendik’s Kurtköy district. It’s been reported that he visited his restaurant just two days before his death. Kaşıkç’s body was discovered in his bedroom at his residence in Istanbul by business partner Mikail Malkoçoğlu on July 29. Family members had raised the alarm when they were unable to reach him the previous day, requesting that Malkoçoğlu go and check on him. The restaurant owner was found dead in his bedroom (Picture: Instagram/kizilsakalinmutfag) Since paramedics pronounced the TV star dead at the scene, an investigation has been launched into the circumstances, with his death described as ‘sudden’ and ‘unexpected’. An autopsy is to be performed. Initial assessments have suggested there is a ‘strong possibility’ he died of a heart attack, according to Malkoçoğlu. Kaşıkç’s funeral will be held on July 31, before he is buried in the province of Tokat, which is where his family lives. Paying tribute, MasterChef Turkey judge Mehmet Yalçınkaya said: ‘My dear brother, you always said “God exists, there is no sorrow,” my dear brother, you had a heart that wouldn’t even hurt an ant. ‘You never had your eye on worldly possessions. My heart aches, a fire has fallen into my soul. May God grant you paradise. I’m sorry, gok.’ He was given the nickname ‘Kizil Sakal,’ meaning ‘Red Beard’ (Picture: Instagram/kizilsakalinmutfag) Kaşıkç had been working on expanding his business (Picture: Instagram/kizilsakalinmutfag) Fellow judge, Danilo Zanna, said he was ‘so happy to have known [him]’. ‘Your smiling face, sincerity, and beautiful heart will always remain in my memory. ‘The beautiful memories you left behind and the mark you left on people’s hearts will never be erased. ‘Our deepest condolences. We will never forget you. ‘May your beautiful heart rest in peace.’ Born in Kirikkale in 1989, Kaşıkç received professional culinary training at a private school from 2012 to 2013, after which he gained experience working in hotel kitchens in Istanbul. After moving to the Aegean island of Gokceada, he became head chef at a surf hotel. Then, five years ago, he gained widespread recognition with his MasterChef appearance, known for his discipline and focus on flavour in his dishes. Kaşıkç was also given the nickname ‘Kizil Sakal,’ meaning ‘Red Beard’. Deals of the Day Wuka launches the UK’s first period-proof swimwear for heavy flows Bridgerton fans are rushing to buy these new Netflix-inspired perfumes now £12 off The affordable summer wardrobe update you'll wear from rooftop drinks to beach holidays The £7.99 lip balm beauty fans love for glossy, hydrated lips just dropped four new shades This Keskine hydrogel mask could fix your summer skin He is survived by his wife and one daughter. Arrow MORE: Amanda Holden and Danny Dyer lead celebrities supporting Lisa Faulkner after cancer diagnosis TV Newsletter Sign up and tell us which TV shows you love to watch to get personalised updates every morning.