Alexei Zimin, the 52-year-old Russian chef who became a household name through his popular cooking show and outspoken opposition to Vladimir Putin, has been found dead in a hotel in Belgrade, Serbia.
His sudden death has shocked the culinary world and raised questions surrounding the circumstances, particularly given his history of dissent against the Russian government.
Serbian authorities have stated that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death, though an autopsy and toxicology report are ongoing to determine the exact cause.
Alexei Zimin: A Life Beyond the Kitchen
Born in Russia, Alexei Zimin was not only celebrated for his skills in the kitchen but also known for his vocal political views, particularly against the policies of the Russian government. Before relocating to the UK, Zimin was a famous figure in Russian media, hosting a cooking show on the NTV channel.
His television career spanned years, but in 2014, after expressing opposition to the Kremlin’s annexation of Crimea, Zimin found himself in conflict with the Russian authorities. Forced to leave the country, he relocated to London but continued to stay connected with Russian audiences through his show, even as tensions with the government increased.
Zimin’s outspoken criticism of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 further distanced him from his homeland. He posted a video on social media singing an anti-war song, which led to the abrupt cancellation of his show on NTV.
This public stance against Putin’s regime marked a significant turning point in his life and career. Despite the cancellation of his popular cooking show, Zimin’s reputation as a chef remained intact, and he continued to thrive in his new home in London, where he opened the Zima restaurant.
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In the UK, Zimin’s restaurant quickly became a place where guests could experience his passion for cooking while enjoying a warm and inviting atmosphere. Despite his success, Zimin’s life was far from peaceful. His political beliefs made him a target for Russian authorities and led to threats against his business.
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His restaurant in London even made headlines for its donations to Ukrainian refugees, demonstrating his commitment to standing up for what he believed was right.
The Final Days of Alexei Zimin
Zimin had traveled to Serbia in recent days to promote his new book, “Anglomania,” which detailed his experiences and reflections on his life in the UK. His visit to the Serbian capital seemed like a normal promotional event, with no signs that anything was amiss.
Katerina Ternovskaya, co-owner of the restaurant where Zimin had presented his book, stated that the chef appeared happy and in good spirits just before his death. “The last time we saw him, he was smiling and in a great mood,” Ternovskaya shared, adding that the dinner he hosted was wonderful.
However, just hours later, Zimin was found dead in his hotel room. Authorities in Serbia have clarified that there were no signs of foul play, but they have initiated an autopsy and toxicology tests to ensure the cause of death is understood. As the investigation continues, Zimin’s death remains a tragic event that has left both his colleagues and friends in shock.
A Legacy of Resistance and Culinary Excellence
Zimin’s death has sent ripples through both the culinary world and the global political scene. His restaurant, Zima, in London posted an emotional tribute to the chef on Instagram, expressing deep sadness over his passing.
“To us, Alexei was not only a colleague but also a friend, a close companion with whom we shared many experiences—good, kind, and at times sorrowful,” the restaurant wrote. The message also extended condolences to Zimin’s family, mourning alongside them.
Throughout his life, Alexei Zimin remained steadfast in his opposition to what he saw as injustices and corruption, especially regarding the war in Ukraine. He expressed these sentiments through his public platform, which made him a voice for many Russians living in exile. His ability to speak out in the face of immense political pressure earned him respect both in Russia and internationally.
Despite the challenges he faced due to his political beliefs, Zimin’s love for cooking never waned. He used his platform to combine his culinary expertise with his message of peace and justice. His refusal to remain silent in the face of war and oppression made him a powerful figure, not only in the food industry but also in the broader struggle for human rights and freedom of expression.
Zimin’s tragic death serves as a reminder of the difficult decisions many individuals face when they stand up against oppressive regimes. For those who knew him, his death marks the end of a chapter in the ongoing battle for truth and justice, a battle that Zimin fought until the very end.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏