Dave Myers (presenter)

David James Myers (8 September 1957 – 28 February 2024) was an English television presenter, and one half of the Hairy Bikers, along with Si King. He also appeared on the BBC celebrity talent show Strictly Come Dancing. Together, Myers and King presented a number of television cookery series for the BBC. They also launched an online weight loss programme, 'The Hairy Bikers Diet Club'.

Early life

Myers was born on 8 September 1957 in Barrow-in-Furness, where his father worked as a foreman in a paper mill. Myers was a young carer at the age of 8; after his mother was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, he learned to cook to help his family.

He attended Barrow-in-Furness Grammar School for Boys, where he credited an art teacher, Mr Eaton, as the inspiration behind his degree in fine art at Goldsmiths, University of London, and an M.A. in art history. The first motorcycle Myers bought, when still a student, was a Cossack Ural Mars Mk III, with a sidecar.

Myers then became a professional make-up artist, specialising in prosthetics. He met Si King in 1995 on the set of the television drama The Gambling Man.

Career

Myers and Si King first appeared on the BBC's show The Hairy Bikers' Cookbook. The programme presented a mixture of cookery and travelogue, using a similar style to chef Keith Floyd, including the habit of frequently referring to the cameraman and other crew. Most shows featured the pair riding motorbikes, including the BMW R1200GS, F650GS and Triumph Rocket III. The show also featured elements of the Two Fat Ladies format, including regular banter between the two stars, use of various unusual cooking locations and the use of motorbikes.