Friedman Paul Erhardt, best known as "Chef Tell", one of the American's earliest television chef's died Monday at age 63. Erhardt, who was known for his wit and thick German accent was a regular on Regis and Kathie Lee (later Regis and Kelly) as well as a regular in SNL comedy skits. He was also purportedly the inspiration for the Swedish chef character on The Muppet Show.

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I remember watching Erhardt's appearances on a variety of televisions shows when I was in high school and college. I remember being fascinated with cooking even then and always found watching him both educational and entertaining. Perhaps he was the beginning of my fascination with culinary shows.