Hairy Bikers – The End of an Era and What Comes Next

The Hairy Bikers, Dave Myers and Si King, became two of Britain’s most beloved cooking personalities through their infectious camaraderie, hearty recipes, and motorcycle-themed television adventures. Their partnership spanned nearly three decades and produced dozens of cookbooks, numerous BBC series, and a devoted following. The duo’s story took a profound turn in early 2024 with the death of Dave Myers, leaving fans wondering about the future of the brand and the legacy of the two friends who made cooking feel approachable and fun.

This article brings together the latest verified information on Dave Myers’ passing, Si King’s current activities, the best-known recipes, and the personal lives behind the public personas. All facts are drawn from official statements, news reports, and biographical sources.

Who Were the Hairy Bikers? The Story of Dave Myers and Si King

Overview of the Duo

Key Insights

• The Hairy Bikers transformed from hobby cooks to a major BBC brand, embodying a uniquely British blend of food, friendship, and motorbikes.
• Dave Myers’ death from cancer in 2024 marked a deeply emotional end to the duo’s 20+ year partnership, sparking an enormous public outpouring.
• Si King has publicly stated the duo has officially ended but is exploring ways to preserve their recipe and TV legacy.
• The brand’s official site continues to sell merchandise and cookbooks, suggesting a long-tail commercial ‘afterlife’ for the duo.
• The Hairy Bikers sold more than six million cookbooks worldwide, according to BBC.
• The pair first met while working on a film set in 1995, where Myers was a make-up artist and King was a runner.

Hairy Bikers: Key Facts at a Glance

The duo’s journey began in the north of England. Dave Myers was born on 8 September 1957 in Barrow-in-Furness and worked as a make-up artist at the BBC. Si King came from a background in film and television production. Their shared love of cooking and motorcycles created a format that felt fresh and unfussy.

What Happened to Dave Myers? His Death and the Duo’s Legacy

Dave Myers’ Cancer Battle: A Timeline

In 2022, Dave Myers was diagnosed with cancer and began treatment. His condition worsened over the following year. On 28 February 2024, at age 66, he died peacefully at home with his wife Liliana, family, and close friends by his side. Si King announced the news publicly, stating that Myers “had cancer” and passed away “peacefully at home,” as reported by BBC News.

The Outpouring of Tributes from Fans and Fellow Chefs

Following Myers’ death, tributes poured in from across the food and entertainment world. BBC News described him as “a gentle giant who made cooking fun for everyone.” Si King shared an emotional message on Instagram: “There will never be another Dave. I will miss him every day.” The public response reflected the deep connection viewers felt with the duo.

What Happens to the ‘Hairy Bikers’ Brand Now?

Si King has stated clearly that there will be no new Hairy Bikers television shows without Dave. In a late 2024 interview, he said the months after Myers’ death were “a challenge” and that he was compiling a new collection of classic Hairy Bikers recipes while exploring “a few new endeavors on the horizon,” as reported by Si King now. The brand’s official website continues to sell cookbooks and merchandise, keeping the legacy alive.

Hairy Bikers Where Are They Now: The State of the Brand

As of 2025, the Hairy Bikers brand remains present through back-catalogue TV shows, cookbook sales, and memorial events. A second Dave Day was scheduled for June 2025, and a tribute documentary aired. The duo’s recipe collection continues to attract new cooks.

Is Si King Still a Hairy Biker? His Solo Journey and Future Plans

Si King’s Public Statements Since Dave’s Passing

Si King has been open about his grief and his sense of responsibility. He told the BBC it was his duty to cherish Myers’ legacy and preserve “the heritage they both created as the Hairy Bikers.” He has not ruled out solo television work but has made clear that any new project will not carry the Hairy Bikers name.

Solo Projects and Television Appearances

While specific solo projects have not been fully detailed, King has hinted at continued involvement in food media. He has appeared in retrospective documentaries and participated in events like Dave Day. The BBC has reported that King is “compiling a new collection of classic Hairy Bikers recipes.”

The Future of the Hairy Bikers Recipe Legacy

The duo’s cookbook catalogue remains in print, and a 2024 compilation titled ‘The Best of The Hairy Bikers’ was released. No word has been given on entirely new original recipes under the Hairy Bikers name, but fan interest is expected to sustain sales for years.

What Are the Best Hairy Bikers Recipes and Are There New Cookbooks?

Top 5 Fan-Favorite Recipes from the Hairy Bikers

Among their most popular dishes are Hairy Bikers kedgeree, shakshuka, spicy bean burgers, chicken tikka masala, and a classic Sunday roast. Many of these appear in their BBC Food collection and multiple cookbooks.

Their Latest Cookbook: ‘The Best of The Hairy Bikers’

Published in 2024 (with some listings showing 2025), this volume gathers the most requested recipes from their decades of television and print. It is considered the ideal starting point for new fans.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meals: Spag Bol and Beyond

The Hairy Bikers were known for accessible, no-fuss cooking. Their spaghetti bolognese, cottage pie, and one-pot stews are frequently recommended by home cooks for busy evenings.

Where to Find the Full Collection of BBC Food Recipes

Many of their recipes are available on BBC Food’s Hairy Bikers page. The official Hairy Bikers website also hosts a recipe blog, and their YouTube channel provides video demonstrations.

Who Were the Hairy Bikers Wives and Partners? Their Personal Lives

Dave Myers and His Wife Liliana: A Love Story

Dave Myers met Liliana Orzac while filming in Romania. They married in 2011. Liliana had two children, Iza and Sergiu, whom Myers loved “like his own,” according to reports. She was by his side when he died.

Si King and His Wife: Life Away from the Cameras

Si King is married, but he has kept his wife’s identity largely private. He has spoken about the importance of family support, especially following the loss of his friend and partner.

The Importance of Family in the Hairy Bikers’ Story

Both men valued their families deeply. Myers often credited his wife for her unwavering support during his illness. King has said that family helped him navigate the grief of losing Dave.

How Did the Hairy Bikers’ Story Unfold Over Time?

1. 1995 (approx.) – Dave Myers and Si King meet while working as a make-up artist and a runner on a film set.
2. 2004 – They begin cooking together for friends; the ‘Hairy Bikers’ persona is born.
3. 2006 – First TV series airs on BBC Two: ‘The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook’.
4. 2010s – Multiple series on BBC (Hairy Bikers’ Best of British, Hairy Bikers’ Pubs, etc.).
5. 2012 – They appear on ‘The One Show’ and become regular BBC personalities.
6. 2022 – Dave Myers is diagnosed with cancer; he undergoes treatment.
7. 2023 – Dave’s condition worsens; Si continues filming support; last series aired.
8. 28 Feb 2024 – Dave Myers dies aged 66.
9. 2024–2025 – Si King announces the duo has ended; releases ‘Best of…’ book. Legacy content continues online.

What Is Confirmed and What Remains Uncertain About the Hairy Bikers?

Why Did the Hairy Bikers Resonate with So Many People?

The Hairy Bikers stood out for their authentic Northern charm, their ‘ordinary blokes’ appeal, and the emotional depth of their friendship. Their BBC shows frequently drew over 2 million viewers. They represented a departure from celebrity chef elitism, making cooking feel inclusive and unpretentious.

By combining food with travel and motorbikes, they created a genre that bridged lifestyle and cookery. They normalised male friendship in the kitchen and inspired countless home cooks to try new recipes. Their influence extended beyond television into publishing and live events.

Even after Myers’ death, the cultural footprint remains strong. The duo’s approachable style helped demystify cooking for a generation, and their recipe library continues to be used in homes across the UK and beyond.

What Have the Hairy Bikers and Others Said About Their Legacy?

“There will be no new Hairy Bikers shows without Dave. It’s the end of an era.”

— Si King (Public Statement, 2024)

“Dave Myers was a gentle giant who made cooking fun for everyone.”

— BBC News (Obituary)

“We invite you to keep cooking with us, in Dave’s memory.”

— Official Website

What Is the Lasting Impact of the Hairy Bikers?

The Hairy Bikers leave behind a rich legacy of approachable cooking, genuine friendship, and millions of copies of their cookbooks in homes across the world. Si King continues to steward that heritage, ensuring that Dave Myers’ contributions are remembered and celebrated. For the latest updates, follow Si King now as he shapes the next chapter.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Hairy Bikers