Fans of MasterChef Poland are mourning one of the show’s most memorable home cooks. Mariusz Komenda, who battled his way to the semifinals of the competition’s eighth season, has died after a months-long fight with a serious illness, ESKA reported on October 7, 2026. He was a familiar face in his hometown of Środa Śląska, where he spent years feeding his community from his own restaurant kitchen.
Here’s what we know so far about his cause of death, his time on the show and the life he built after it.
Mariusz died after battling a malignant brain tumor. He was diagnosed in early 2026 and underwent two complex surgeries as doctors fought to slow the disease. Supporters also launched a fundraiser to help cover the cost of further treatment.
The local news portal Roland was the first to share word of his death, describing the chef as a respected cook and restaurateur who had struggled with a serious illness in recent months. The outlet opened its tribute with a heartfelt message.
“We have received the news of Mariusz Komenda’s death with great sadness.”
His exact date of death has not been publicly shared. He joins the stars we’ve lost in 2026.
Mariusz competed on the eighth season of MasterChef Poland, which aired in 2019. He cooked his way through round after round and earned a spot among the semifinalists, which sent him on the show’s trip to Mexico with the rest of the season’s top cooks.
