Christopher Wheeler, a television chef known for his appearances on the BBC’s Great British Menu and Saturday Kitchen, died from the combined effects of several drugs, an inquest determined. His body was discovered in Brompton Cemetery, located in southwest London, after council workers found him leaning against a grave and called emergency services.

Wheeler, 52, a father of two with a documented history of mental health challenges, had been reported missing by his partner two days earlier. A post-mortem examination revealed that his cause of death was asphyxiation compounded by the harmful impact of crystal methamphetamine, amphetamine, and ketamine.

Local police investigated the circumstances and concluded there was no evidence of third-party involvement in his death. During the inquest, Coroner Mrs. Jean Harkin recorded an open verdict, noting there was no indication Wheeler intended to take his own life, as he left no note and had no prior history of self-harm.

The inquest highlighted the complex nature of Wheeler’s death, reflecting the intersection of substance use and mental health issues.