Celebrity chef Michael Chiarello has died at the age of 61 after an allergic reaction triggered anaphylactic shock, his family says.
Over the course of his career, the California-born Chiarello had shows on PBS and Food Network and competed on Iron Chef and Top Chef franchises. He also won a Daytime Emmy in 2005 for Outstanding Service Show Host for his Food Network series, Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello.
His culinary empire was centered in Napa Valley, where he died after a week in the hospital, People reported.
His family did not reveal what caused the acute allergic reaction but confirmed they were at his side when he died.
“We deeply mourn the loss of our beloved patriarch Michael,” the family told People in a statement.
“His culinary brilliance, boundless creativity, and unwavering commitment to family were at the core of his being. He brought people together through the joy of shared meals, fostering lasting memories around the table.
“As we navigate this profound loss, we hold dear the moments we cherished with him, both in his kitchens and in our hearts. His legacy will forever live on in the love he poured into every dish and the passion he instilled in all of us to savor life’s flavors.”
Friends and fellow stars soon paid tribute, including celebrity chef Robert Irvine, who posted to X: “A very sad day for me personally and the culinary world . My thoughts and Prayers go out to family and teammates. RIP my Dear friend you will be sorely missed.”
