How Old Is Prue Leith
Prue Leith, the culinary icon, has captivated audiences with her talent and expertise for decades. Born as Prudence Margaret Leith on February 18, 1940, she is currently 83 years old.
Hailing from Cape Town, South Africa, Prue Leith has made her mark on the culinary world as a renowned restaurateur, television presenter, cookery writer, and novelist. She gained widespread recognition as a judge on the BBC Two’s Great British Menu for eleven years before joining The Great British Bake Off in 2017.
Throughout her illustrious career, Prue Leith has had a remarkable journey filled with achievements and milestones. From opening her Michelin-starred restaurant, Leith’s, in Notting Hill, London, in 1969 to founding the esteemed Leith’s School of Food and Wine in 1975, her contributions to the food industry are unparalleled.
Prue Leith’s expertise extends beyond the culinary realm. She is also the Chancellor of Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, further showcasing her dedication to education and inspiring future generations of chefs.
Join us as we delve into Prue Leith’s career highlights, personal journey, and the mark she has left on the world of food and beyond.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Prue Leith’s career is filled with exceptional achievements and significant contributions to the culinary world. One of her notable accomplishments was the opening of her Michelin-starred restaurant, Leith’s, in Notting Hill, London, in 1969. This acclaimed establishment garnered praise for its innovative and delectable cuisine until its sale in 1995.
In 1975, Leith went on to found Leith’s School of Food and Wine, which swiftly became a renowned institution for training aspiring chefs and amateur cooks alike. The school continues to be a leading force in culinary education, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the industry.
Prue Leith’s passion for both cooking and writing shines through in her impressive body of work. She has authored 12 cookery books and seven captivating novels, showcasing her expertise in the culinary arts as well as her literary talent.
Apart from her culinary ventures, Leith has made substantial contributions to the realm of education. She founded and chaired the charity Focus on Food, which advocates for the inclusion of cooking in school curricula. Additionally, she served as the Chair of the School Food Trust and has been actively involved in various organizations dedicated to fostering culinary education and promoting healthy eating habits.
Prue Leith’s impact on the culinary industry is undeniable, and her career achievements have solidified her status as a culinary icon. Her commitment to excellence, innovation, and education continues to inspire aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts around the world.
Personal Life and Recognition
In her personal life, Prue Leith has had two marriages. She was married to property developer and author Rayne Kruger from 1974 until his death in 2002. The couple had two children, a son named Danny Kruger, who is a Conservative MP, and a daughter named Li-Da Kruger, who is a filmmaker.
In 2016, Leith married John Playfair, a retired clothes designer. Throughout her career, Prue Leith has received numerous honours and accolades. She was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1989, Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2010, and Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in the 2021 Birthday Honours.
Her contributions to food, broadcasting, and charity have been widely recognized.
