Piet Huysentruyt

What Happened to Piet Huysentruyt and Where Is He Now?

Early Life and Career

Piet Huysentruyt, a Belgian chef and television personality, was born on March 16, 1962, in Bruges. He rose to fame in the 1990s as the host of the popular cooking show "SOS Piet." On the show, Piet traveled around Flanders, Belgium, helping struggling restaurants improve their menus and operations.

Piet's energetic personality and no-nonsense approach to cooking made him a hit with viewers. He became known for his catchphrase, "Lekker!" ("Delicious!"), and his willingness to try new and unusual dishes.

Peak of Success

In addition to his television career, Piet also opened several successful restaurants in Belgium. He also published several cookbooks and became a spokesperson for various food and kitchen products.

At the height of his fame, Piet was one of the most popular chefs in Belgium. He was regularly featured in magazines and newspapers and was a guest on numerous television shows.

Controversies and Decline

However, Piet's career began to decline in the early 2000s. He was involved in several controversies, including allegations of plagiarism and animal cruelty. His restaurants also began to struggle financially.

In 2009, Piet was sentenced to 18 months in prison for tax fraud. He served 10 months of his sentence before being released on parole.

Later Years and Legacy

After his release from prison, Piet kept a low profile. He rarely gave interviews and did not appear on television. He reportedly worked as a chef in a small restaurant in Bruges.

Piet Huysentruyt's legacy is a mixed one. He was a talented chef who helped to popularize Belgian cuisine. However, his career was marred by controversy and financial difficulties.