Online reports claiming that Birmingham chef Alex Claridge has died have circulated, prompting concern among people familiar with his work at The Wilderness and Albatross Death Cult. However, the reported death has not been independently confirmed by a reliable public announcement.

Claridge is an established figure in Birmingham’s hospitality industry. He is the chef behind The Wilderness, a restaurant in the city’s Jewellery Quarter known for its distinctive approach to fine dining, creative menus and rock-inspired atmosphere. The restaurant received a Michelin star in February 2026, marking a significant achievement in its history.

Claridge also established Albatross Death Cult, an intimate tasting-menu restaurant launched in Birmingham in 2024. The project reflects his experimental approach to food and his interest in developing different dining experiences.

In a March 2026 interview with Restaurant, Claridge discussed The Wilderness’s Michelin recognition, his return to a more hands-on role in the kitchen and his ambitions for Albatross Death Cult. A feature published by the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter on October 21, 2026, also discussed a recent message from him about the restaurant’s achievement.

Despite the online claims, the sources reviewed for this article did not establish a date of death or provide a statement from Claridge’s family, representatives or restaurant teams confirming his passing.

Until reliable confirmation becomes available, reports describing Alex Claridge as deceased should be treated as unverified. Readers should avoid sharing unsupported claims, particularly when they concern a person’s death and the wellbeing of their family and colleagues.

This article may be updated if The Wilderness, Albatross Death Cult, the family or another authorised source releases verifiable information.