• Michael Chiarello is an American chef
  • He came to prominence on the Food Network
  • THIS was his cause of death

The world of culinary superstars has lost a major name. Chef Michael Chiarello has passed on. The family issued a statement, saying the late chef will be remembered for his "culinary brilliance, boundless creativity, and unwavering commitment to family." Chiarello’s company Gruppo Chiarello said in a statement sent to CNN that the restaurateur died on Saturday in Napa. He was being treated for an acute allergic reaction resulting in anaphylactic shock, the company’s statement 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," the family shared in a statement.

Michael fought until the end

The statement continued, "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."

What a personality he truly was. Chiarello, who was awarded Chef of the Year by 'Esquire Magazine' in 2013, was also in the business of making wines, going on to establish the Chiarello Family Vineyards in 1999. A year later, He created a retail line of artisanal foods, home products, and kitchenware called NapaStyle, as 'People' reported.

Besides hosting popular food shows, Chiarello also appeared on shows such as 'The View' and 'Today,' and was really beloved by his audience.  The chef is known for his time hosting his namesake Food Network series, 'Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello,' for 10 seasons beginning in 2003.

The series won three Emmys between 2003 and 2006. Michael also appeared on a number of other cooking series such as 'Top Chef,' 'Top Chef Masters,' 'The Next Iron Chef,' 'Iron Chef America' and 'Supermarket Superstar,' which debuted in 2013.

Also interesting:

But his life also had some scandal attached to it. During his successful career as a chef, Chiarello was also faced with a severe scandal in 2016 after he was accused of sexual harassment by two of his former employees who worked at his Coqueta restaurant.

He had been steadily working as a chef in recent years, and retirement was looming eventually. "In remembrance, we ask that you join us in celebrating his remarkable journey and the incredible impact he had on the world of food, wine, and family by inviting you to share a meal with your family and friends to remind all of us that the bonds forged over a meal are among life's most precious treasures," the company's statement concluded.

And, why not raise a glass to a generational talent? Chef Michael's legacy lives on in his recipes now!