Jean-Luc Petitrenaud, a prominent figure in French gastronomy, gained fame through his television shows, notably *Carte postale gourmande* and *Les Escapades de Petitrenaud*. An accomplished author, he published several culinary books and a novel inspired by his parents. Petitrenaud passed away at 74, shortly after fellow chef Maïté, leaving behind a legacy that celebrated the joy of dining and the cultural connections it fosters, as noted by journalist Laurent Mariotte.
Jean-Luc Petitrenaud: A Culinary Icon
Jean-Luc Petitrenaud, born in Clermont-Ferrand in 1950, embarked on his professional journey in the world of radio before captivating audiences on television. His engaging personality and deep passion for gastronomy quickly made him a beloved figure in the media landscape. His television program, *Carte postale gourmande*, aired on France 5, garnered him widespread acclaim. However, it was *Les Escapades de Petitrenaud*, which aired from 2006 to 2017, that truly solidified his connection with viewers and secured his place in their hearts.
A Lasting Legacy in Literature and Television
Throughout his career, Petitrenaud authored numerous culinary works, including *La France du casse-croûte* and various editions of *Mes bons coups de fourchette*. In 2018, he released *Les Quatre saisons d’Émile et Marcelle*, a poignant novel inspired by his parents’ lives, who had passed away shortly before its publication. Although he remained passionate about gastronomy, he became less visible in the media in recent years, particularly following his departure from television. This shift allowed him to concentrate on writing, where he continued to express his love for food through his books.
Tragically, just weeks after the passing of fellow culinary figure Maïté, Petitrenaud himself passed away in Paris at the age of 74. His children, Louise and Antonin, shared the heartbreaking news on January 10, 2025, expressing their gratitude to the many who cherished their father throughout his life.
While the exact cause of his death has not been revealed, Petitrenaud had previously spoken about stepping back from the spotlight due to fatigue during a 2019 interview. “I was very tired, that’s why I wanted to focus on my book… It was a form of weariness,” he reflected. Despite these challenges, he remained hopeful for a return to television, expressing a desire to share stories once more.
Following his passing, fellow journalist Laurent Mariotte paid tribute to Petitrenaud on Europe 1, highlighting his unique storytelling ability that transcended mere gastronomy. “The table is much more than food; it’s everything around it,” Mariotte remarked, emphasizing the joy, family, and camaraderie that Petitrenaud celebrated in his work. He also noted Petitrenaud’s deep appreciation for wines, especially those from the Loire region, underscoring his passion for the cultural connections fostered through dining.