Alexei Zimin, a Russian chef living in London who was known for his open opposition to Vladimir Putin, was found dead in a Belgrade hotel. At the time of his death, 52-year-old Zimin was on a promotional tour for his latest book “Anglomania”. The cause of death is still unclear and the Serbian authorities have ordered an autopsy and a toxicological report.
Zimin’s sudden death has shocked his family and the Russian community abroad. Friends and colleagues describe him as healthy and with no known health problems. His wife and three daughters survive him. Zimin’s death comes at a time when many Russian exiles who have spoken out against Putin’s government are suffering from ongoing tensions.
Zimin was known for his work on popular Russian cooking shows, but his career faltered after he openly criticised Russia’s actions in Ukraine. His anti-war stance led to him being sacked by NTV, a pro-Kremlin broadcaster, and his 11-year career as a TV chef ended in 2022. In the same year, he moved to London, where he opened Zima — a restaurant and media project for Russian expatriates in Soho.
Zima was a vibrant centre that hosted events for exiled Russians and provided a platform for critics of the Kremlin. Zimin often spoke out against the war, saying: “Russia will be free, in one way or another, or in a third, more mysterious way.”
Promoting Anglomania, which celebrates British culture and democratic values, Zimin was an inspiration to all who value freedom of expression. His death has shocked many, and his contributions to Russian food and culture will be remembered by his community worldwide.