Her television segments were known for their humor and charm, including memorable moments like struggling with an eel and preparing a live duck, which sparked both laughter and controversy.

Maïté's cooking style emphasized hearty dishes, and she was celebrated for her straightforward approach and distinctive accent, which endeared her to viewers.

Throughout her career, Maïté published several cookbooks, sharing her culinary expertise and passion with a wider audience.

Maïté's death represents a significant loss in the culinary television landscape of France, where she had become an iconic figure.

Marie-Thérèse Ordonez, known as Maïté, passed away on December 21, 2024, at the age of 86, marking the end of an era for French culinary television.

She was a beloved television chef famous for her show 'La Cuisine des Mousquetaires', which aired from 1983 to 1997 on FR3, where she captivated audiences with her recipes and vibrant personality.

Maïté's journey to fame began when she was discovered by filmmaker Patrice Bellot while preparing meals for a rugby team in her hometown of Rion-des-Landes.

After her television career, she returned to Rion-des-Landes to manage her restaurant, continuing to share her culinary passion.

In addition to her television work, Maïté opened two restaurants: Le Relais des Landes in 1988 and Chez Maïté, further solidifying her status in the culinary world.

Despite facing health challenges in her later years, she remained a symbol of culinary passion and family traditions, leaving behind two granddaughters to whom she passed on her love for cooking.

French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to her, calling her an ambassador of traditional French cuisine and an inspiration to many families.

Her legacy continued through social media, where clips of her cooking, including her unique XXL burger, gained popularity among younger audiences.