‘MasterChef Poland’ Star Mariusz Komenda Dies at 44

Mariusz Komenda, known for his appearance on “MasterChef Poland,” has died at the age of 44. The chef, who was a semifinalist in the show's eighth season in 2019, passed away on Wednesday. His death comes months after he was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor.

Polish news outlet roland-gazeta.pl, located in Komenda’s hometown of Środa Śląska, was the first to report the news. TVN, the network that airs “MasterChef Poland,” confirmed Komenda’s death in a statement on social media, citing Polish media outlets. "It is with great sadness that we received the news of Mariusz Komenda’s death," the statement read. "Mariusz was part of the ‘MasterChef’ family. We will remember him as a man full of passion, energy, and a love for cooking."

The creators of “MasterChef” also issued a tribute, echoing TVN’s sentiments. "It’s difficult to find words to express our grief," the statement continued. "We share in his grief with his family, loved ones and everyone who had the opportunity to know him. Mariusz, we will miss you very much."

In March, Komenda publicly shared details of his diagnosis on a fundraising page linked to his Instagram account. He revealed that he was hospitalized in early January with a suspected stroke, which led to the discovery of a malignant brain tumor. "I thought it was just a temporary crisis. Unfortunately, the reality turned out to be far grimmer," he wrote in a statement translated from Polish. "From that moment on, the hardest fight of my life began."

Komenda was admitted to a hospital in Warsaw in late January, where he underwent multiple surgeries. These included a procedure to remove the tumor in his right thalamus and another to remove a section of his skull to alleviate pressure. Subsequent tests revealed additional cancerous lesions, and Komenda stated he was undergoing neurorehabilitation to regain his physical function.

He had established the fundraising page to help cover the extensive costs of his treatment and recovery, which he described as enormous and beyond his personal means. Prior to his death, Komenda opened the Father & Son restaurant with his son in April 2025 in Środa Śląska.