Celebrity chef and television host Mynie Steffens died Monday in a helicopter crash in South Africa’s Eastern Cape while conducting agricultural operations over a citrus farm. The 43-year-old was piloting the aircraft herself when it struck power lines before crashing near the town of Patensie, roughly 56 miles west of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) in the Eastern Cape.

The incident occurred on Monday, November 10, 2025, with reports indicating the crash took place around 8 a.m. local time. Steffens was spraying pesticides on oranges at what reports indicate was Roodegrond Farm when the helicopter collided with power lines.

According to the Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division, “The helicopter itself was substantially damaged due to impact force.” The South African aviation authority has opened an official investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Reports indicate Steffens was the only person aboard the aircraft at the time of the accident.

The helicopter was identified as a Robinson R22 with registration ZS-DLF. Reports mention clear weather conditions at the time of the crash, and the area is described as hilly with power lines crossing several citrus fields.

Steffens gained prominence as co-host of “Speel met Vuur,” an Afrikaans cooking and lifestyle show whose title translates to “Playing with Fire.” She hosted the program alongside Aldi van der Walt, a high school friend with whom she reconnected to create the show.

In addition to her television work, Steffens authored the cookbook “Mynie Plays with Fire.” The cookbook reflected her passion for outdoor cooking techniques.

Steffens’s love of “braai” (South African style outdoor fire-cooking) dated back to when she was ten years old.

Van der Walt spoke with media outlets following the crash, calling her friend’s death a “massive shock” and “tragic loss.” She reflected on Steffens’ approach to life and work, telling reporters that her co-host was always full of ideas that had transformed into successful endeavours, winning over people as she went along.

The television personality was remembered for her warm personality and dedication to connecting with others. Van der Walt noted that Steffens “had a big heart, gentle soul, the glue that kept people together.” She added that Steffens had patience and kindness coupled with humor, making her irresistible to people.

Van der Walt also emphasized her late friend’s ability to prioritize personal connections despite her busy schedule. According to sources, Steffens could make time for people from every walk of life, and that was her priority. This quality endeared her to viewers and colleagues throughout her career in South African media.

The duo’s friendship and collaboration on their cooking show established Steffens as a household name in South African entertainment.

Steffens was known beyond her culinary expertise as an experienced helicopter pilot and adventurer, embodying what friends described as a fearless approach to life.

The investigation by South African aviation authorities remains ongoing as officials work to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the helicopter striking the power lines. The Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division continues to examine the wreckage and gather information about the circumstances of the fatal crash.