TV chef Michael Chiarello's cause of death announced as he dies aged 61

09 October 2023 , 06:53

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Michael Chiarello died in hospital

Michael Chiarello died after suffering an allergic reaction, his family has revealed.

The popular TV chef, who was a regular on shows such as the Today Show and The View, was 61 years old at his time of death. He died in hospital on Friday where he was being treated for an acute allergic reaction, which led to anaphylactic shock.

In a statement, his heartbroken family said: "We deeply mourn the loss of our beloved patriarch Michael. 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.

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Michael Chiarello has died at the age of 61 (WireImage)

"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 savour life's flavours."

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Anaphylactic shock can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to something you're allergic to. During the reaction, a person's blood pressure drops suddenly and the airways narrow which blocks breathing.

Tributes have been pouring in for Michael on social media. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan wrote: "One of my first dates with my now wife was at Michael Chiarello's Tra Vigne in Napa. It was one of those perfect meals that we still talk about. He opened our eyes to what a restaurant experience could be and set the standard for us for fine dining. Tragic loss."

He died following an allergic reaction (Getty Images North America)

Another person wrote: "I just learned that chef, Michael Chiarello died last night from an acute allergic reaction that led to anaphylactic shock. He was a California pioneer in many things and his restaurants: Bottega and Coqueta continue to celebrate his legacy," while a third fan added: "For those who had my chocolate tiramisu, it was Chiarello’s recipe. His Tra Vigne restaurant was one of my absolute favorites in Napa and their cookbook is used often in my house. He is the chef that taught me to love polenta. RIP, Chef. Huge loss."

Michael was named Food & Wine Magazine's Chef of the Year Award in 1985, just three years after graduating from the Culinary Institute of America. In 2013, Esquire magazine handed him the same title.

Before his death, Chiarello ran a number of restaurants and authored a series of cookbooks. He lived in his vineyards in Napa Valley with his wife and children.

Scarlett O'Toole