‘MasterChef Junior’ Contestant Ben Watkins Dies At 14 From Cancer [Condolences]

‘MasterChef Junior’ Contestant Ben Watkins Dies At 14 From Cancer

Sadly, former MasterChef Junior contestant, Ben Watkins has succumbed to his complications from his battle with cancer at the young age of 14.

The young, rising star was reportedly undergoing treatment for a rare form or cancer when he passed away at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

The doctors told Ben’s family that he was 1 of only 6 people in the entire world diagnosed with the rare illness called Angiomatoid Fibrous Histiocytoma.

Ben Watkins quickly gained fans during his time on MasterChef Junior season 6, as a bright and bubbly personality that showcased his talent in cooking.

A very touching video collage was put created for Ben from all of his fellow team mates, cast and crew, sharing their love and memories.  Watch the video below.

The show’s host and executive producer, Gordon Ramsay wrote a heartfelt message on his Instagram, showing love to the young star.  He wrote,

We lost a Master of the @masterchefjunior kitchen today.  Ben you were an incredibly talented home cook and even stronger young man.  Your young life had so many touch turns but you always persevered.  I adored our time cooking and laughing together on set.  Heartbroken today losing my little mate, sending all my love to Ben Watkins’ family with this terrible loss Gx

The MasterChef Junior page also sent their condolences to Ben.

It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of Ben Watkins, a beloved member of the MasterChef Junior family.  Ben overcame so much in his life with a remarkably positive attitude.  He was a tremendous role model for chefs of all ages and will be dearly missed by everyone at EndemoIShine North American and FOX Entertainment. 

Ben used to cook at Big Ben’s Bodacious BBQ and Delicatessen in Gary, Indiana with his late parents, who died 3 years ago in a murder-suicide and his family remembers him as “the strongest person we’ve ever known.”

We send our prayers and condolences to the family of Ben Watkins.  Share your condolences below.