Maïté, Beloved French Culinary Icon, Dies at 86

The celebrated host of 'La Cuisine des Mousquetaires' and champion of traditional French cuisine passed away in her hometown of Rion-des-Landes.

Maïté, born Marie-Thérèse Ordonez, gained national fame as the host of 'La Cuisine des Mousquetaires,' a popular cooking show that aired from 1983 to 1997.
Known for her hearty, rustic dishes and her unfiltered personality, Maïté became a symbol of French culinary traditions, particularly those of her native South-West region.
Her cooking style, which often featured rich ingredients like duck fat and Armagnac, celebrated the flavors of the terroir and inspired generations of home cooks and chefs alike.
In addition to her television career, Maïté authored successful cookbooks, acted in films, and remained a proud advocate for her regional heritage throughout her life.
President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to her legacy, calling her an 'ambassador of traditional French cuisine' and an 'icon of popular culture.'