Inside the Ritz star Michael De Cozar dies age 69 as tributes are paid: 'Your keys may now be laid to rest'
Fans will remember him from the ITV seriesInside the Ritz star Michael De Cozar has died aged 69.
The Ritz London confirmed the death of its Head Hall Porter in a statement shared on social media.
Michael spent 53 years working at the hotel, becoming a familiar figure to guests and colleagues across several generations.
He joined The Ritz as a page boy in 1973 and went on to become the youngest head concierge in the hotel’s history at the age of 24.
More recently, his charming manner was shown in ITV’s fly-on-the-wall mini-series, Inside the Ritz.
The Ritz London pays tribute to Michael De Cozar
Announcing the news, The Ritz said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of our Head Hall Porter and dear colleague, Michael De Cozar.”
The Ritz described Michael as a “cherished member” of its Hall Porter team. The hotel thanked him for his decades of loyalty and service.
Its statement continued: “His warmth and kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of working with him, as well as by our many guests who knew and loved him.”
The hotel added that its thoughts were with Michael’s family and loved ones.
Michael De Cozar in ITV’s Inside the Ritz
Michael featured in Inside the Ritz, ITV’s 2019 programme about the day-to-day running of the famous London hotel. The show took viewers behind the scenes, including a look at the work involved in preparing its Afternoon Tea service.
The series also featured visits from well-known guests including actor Richard E Grant, Anna Wintour and footballer Mo Salah.
Speaking about his job, Michael said in the first episode: “This is what I love to do. I like to make people happy. Make things happen. If I had my life again, this is what I’d do. I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
Michael had another screen credit away from the ITV programme, appearing in the 1999 film Notting Hill alongside Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts.
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The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain & the Commonwealth recognised Michael’s long contribution to hospitality with an Honorary Life Membership earlier in the year.
Tributes pour in for Michael
In its own tribute, the Golden Keys of Great Britain & The Commonwealth called Michael “one of the great figures of British hospitality” and praised the qualities that made him such a respected concierge.
“Rest in peace, Michael. Your keys may now be laid to rest, but your legacy will remain with our Society and our profession for generations to come,” the organisation added.
Meanwhile, one friend and former colleague wrote online: “No words to describe the feeling. It was just so lovely and an honour to work and knowing Michael. Wherever you are now, Rest In Peace Michael.”
Another person added: “Such terribly sad news what a lovely man and such a part of the Ritz history. RIP Michael and condolences to all his family and colleagues.”
Inside The Ritz is available to watch on BBC Select on YouTube.
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