The South African culinary community is reeling after the sudden and tragic death of beloved television chef Mynie Steffens, whose vibrant personality and adventurous spirit made her a household name across the country. Steffens, just 43, was killed on November 10, 2025, in a helicopter crash in the Eastern Cape—a devastating loss that has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and media figures who admired her talent and zest for life.
Steffens was widely recognized for her television work, her cookbook, and her passionate dedication to the art of cooking. Her death, both unexpected and heartbreaking, leaves a profound void in South African media and in the hearts of those who followed her culinary journey.
Authorities confirmed that Steffens was piloting a helicopter during a routine pest control operation over a citrus farm near Patensie when the aircraft struck a power line, leading to the fatal crash. The helicopter was later discovered on a grassy section of the farm, severely damaged. Investigators are still examining the circumstances surrounding the incident, reviewing everything from weather conditions to mechanical factors.
Her death is a sobering reminder of life’s fragility and the unpredictable turns it can take. For many, the loss of such a vibrant figure at the height of her creative career has been especially difficult to comprehend.
A Shock Felt Across the Country
News of Steffens’ passing sent shockwaves through the South African media industry. To those who watched her on television, she was more than a chef — she was a lively, charismatic presence whose enthusiasm was irresistible. Through her hit VIA TV series Speel met Vuur (Play With Fire), she made cooking both thrilling and accessible, infusing every episode with her signature blend of humor, energy, and bold creativity.
Her connection with audiences stemmed not only from her skill in the kitchen but from her ability to make viewers feel included in her adventures. Whether she was preparing a fire-grilled feast or chatting with guests, Steffens radiated warmth and authenticity. Her personality transcended the screen, turning her into a role model for aspiring chefs and an inspirational figure for loyal fans.
Speel met Vuur quickly became synonymous with South African outdoor cooking culture, showcasing traditional ingredients, flame-forward techniques, and Steffens’ trademark passion for pushing boundaries. It was an honest reflection of who she was—curious, courageous, and always ready to explore something new. Her passing leaves a profound and lasting impact on all those who came to love her work.
A Passion for the Skies
While millions knew Steffens for her culinary flair, fewer realized that she harbored an equal passion for aviation. As a licensed helicopter pilot, she frequently shared glimpses of her flights on social media, often taking her aircraft across the vast, scenic landscapes of South Africa.
Flying was more than a hobby for Steffens—it represented freedom, exploration, and the thrill of embracing new challenges. It mirrored her dynamic approach to life and her belief in stepping boldly into the unknown. She spoke often about how flying gave her space to reflect and reconnect with nature, reinforcing her philosophy of living fully, fearlessly, and with relentless curiosity.
Her love for aviation was intertwined with her identity—another avenue through which she expressed her adventurous spirit. Her death during a flight she was qualified to undertake only deepens the tragedy of the accident.
The Fatal Crash
The incident occurred on the afternoon of November 10, 2025, as Steffens was conducting a routine pest control flight over the citrus fields outside Patensie. Authorities report that the helicopter struck a power line before crashing to the ground. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but Steffens did not survive the impact.
Photographs from the scene revealed a scattered and heavily damaged aircraft, prompting an immediate investigation by the South African Police Service and aviation safety officials. While the inquiry is ongoing, early evidence supports initial reports that the collision with the power line precipitated the crash.
The aviation community, much like the culinary world, has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a fellow pilot who approached flying with the same enthusiasm and dedication she brought to the kitchen.
Heartfelt Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
Among the first to speak publicly about Steffens’ death was her co-host and longtime friend, Aldi Van Der Walt. The two shared a close bond dating back to their high school days, and Van Der Walt described her with tenderness and admiration. Calling her a “big-hearted person” with a “gentle soul,” he emphasized how Steffens had a unique ability to bring people together.
“She was always full of ideas that turned into successful ventures,” Van Der Walt told the George Herald. “Mynie had a way of winning people over — through her cooking, her creativity, and her kindness. She made time for everyone. She was genuine, warm, and truly lived life with curiosity and bravery.”
Van Der Walt noted that their reunion years after high school ultimately led to the creation of Speel met Vuur, a show that struck a chord with viewers nationwide. “I’ve lost not just a co-host, but a close friend,” he said. “She lived fully. She lived fearlessly. That’s what I will always remember.”
VIA TV, the network behind her show, released an equally emotional tribute. “Rest in peace, Mynie Steffens. You were adventurous until the end,” the statement read. “With Play With Fire, you showed us how to approach life with curiosity and bravery. Sleep softly, Mynie. You will be deeply missed.”
The network praised her not only as a cherished member of their team but as a trailblazer in South African cooking television — someone whose work blended entertainment, education, and cultural pride.
A Cookbook That Captured Her Spirit
Beyond her television presence, Steffens made her mark through her 2021 cookbook, Mynie Plays with Fire, a celebration of South African barbecue traditions. Filled with recipes centered around open-flame cooking, the book became a testament to her love of bold flavors and communal meals.
Fans and fellow chefs embraced the cookbook for its accessibility and its ability to capture Steffens’ personality — spirited, inviting, and always ready to experiment. Through her recipes, she shared not just food but stories, laughter, and a sense of togetherness that echoed her approach to life.
Her culinary work continues to inspire home cooks and professionals alike, offering a glimpse into the fiery creativity that defined her career.
A Legacy That Will Endure
As tributes continue to pour in from across the country, one thing is clear: Mynie Steffens was far more than a television chef. She was a symbol of passion, resilience, and adventurous living. Her influence stretched beyond the kitchen, touching lives through her warmth, her authenticity, and her unwavering dedication to pursuing what she loved.
Fans and friends are now sharing memories — of dishes cooked, episodes watched, conversations shared, and the spark she brought to every space she entered. Her loss is deeply felt, but her legacy remains firmly intact.
The world of food television has lost a bright star. But the spirit of Mynie Steffens—her bravery, her curiosity, her joy—will continue to inspire long after the cameras have stopped rolling.
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