South African celebrity chef and TV host Mynie Steffens has died in a tragic helicopter crash while spraying crops on a citrus farm in the Eastern Cape. She was 43 years old.
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Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Life of TV Chef Mynie Steffens
Renowned South African TV chef, author, and pilot Mynie Steffens has died following a helicopter crash in the Eastern Cape province. She was 43 years old.
According to George Herald, the fatal accident occurred on Monday, November 10, around 8 a.m., while Steffens was spraying pesticides over a citrus farm. Reports indicate that the helicopter struck power lines before crashing onto the farmland.
“The helicopter itself was substantially damaged due to impact force,” the Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division said in a statement to local media.
Images shared by Exec Ops South Africa showed the wreckage of the helicopter scattered across a grassy area near the farm.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy,” the organization wrote in a social media post.
A Life of Passion, Adventure, and Creativity
Mynie Steffens rose to fame as the co-host of the hit VIA TV cooking show “Speel met Vuur” (translated “Playing with Fire”) alongside her longtime friend Aldi van der Walt.
In 2021, she released her acclaimed cookbook “Mynie Plays With Fire”, published by Penguin Books South Africa, which celebrated braai the beloved South African tradition of barbecue cooking over an open flame.
Outside the kitchen, Steffens was an avid pilot, often sharing videos of her flights on social media, reflecting her love for adventure and the outdoors.
Her co-host and friend, Aldi van der Walt, paid a heartfelt tribute to her, describing her as “a big heart, gentle soul, and the glue that kept people together.”
“Mynie lived life to the full. She was always full of ideas that turned into successful ventures. She could make time for people from every walk of life, and that was her priority,” Van der Walt said.
The VIA TV network also honored Steffens in a touching Facebook post:
“Rest in peace, Mynie Steffens. You were adventurous until the end. With Play With Fire, you showed us how to live life with curiosity and bravery. Sleep softly.”
Legacy of Inspiration
Mynie Steffens’ death has left a deep void in South Africa’s culinary and entertainment community. Her infectious energy, creativity, and fearless spirit continue to inspire both aspiring chefs and fans alike.
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