In memory of the Swedish Chef

'Chef Tell' Erhardt, early television chef, dies at 63

PHILADELPHIA—Friedman Paul Erhardt, a German-born cook known as "Chef Tell" who was one of America's pioneering television chefs, has died. He was 63.

Erhardt died of heart failure on Friday at his home in Upper Black Eddy, about 25 miles east of Allentown, his family said.

Erhardt's jolly personality, thick German accent and wit made him a fixture on television shows such as Regis and Kathie Lee and comedy skits on Saturday Night Live. He was also said to be the inspiration for the Swedish chef on The Muppet Show.