Food Network chef Carl Ruiz died at the age of 44, according to several of his friends, including celebrity chef Guy Fieri.
Fieri confirmed Ruiz’s death on social media, writing, “I’m heartbroken that my friend chef Carl Ruiz is gone. I have no words to describe what a great friend he was to me and my family. His ability to make me laugh and smile under any circumstances was only outshined by his talent as a chef.”
He
also wrote: “Over the years, I’ve met a lot of great people, but a friend like Carl is one in a hundred million. Carl ‘The Cuban’ Ruiz will forever live on in my heart and in those of all who loved him.”
Ruiz appeared on several of Fieri’s shows, including “Guy’s Grocery Games,” “Guy’s Ranch Kitchen,” and “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,”
according to TMZ.
His cause of death was not disclosed.
Food Network regular Jet Tilla also issued a statement.
“You taught us how to enjoy every moment to the fullest and not live, wondering what if! You are gone way too soon @carlruiz! I will always be #ruizing! You will be remembered by us all! #RIP my friend. Thank you @guyfieri for bringing Carl into all of our lives,”
he wrote.
“Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” director of photography Anthony Rodriguez wrote: “I am devastated at the way too soon loss of my friend Carl. Carl, you lived life to the fullest, enjoyed every moment and were one of the truest and most loyal friends anyone could ever ask for,” Rodriguez added. “The friendship and loyalty and laughs he brought to me and all of the group of friends that knew him best, is just indescribable Carl you were definitely an original and lived the fullest and yet, way to short a life. Vaya con dios mi hermano, te amo ❤ See you in the next life, my friend,”
People magazine reported.
Ruiz’s New York City restaurant told People that it would establish a foundation to help aspiring chefs.
“On behalf of the La Cubana family, with heavy hearts, we are deeply saddened to share the passing of our beloved Executive Chef Carl Ruiz. No words can fully express our sadness at the sudden loss of our dear friend and brother,” the statement read.
