Guy Fieri Reacts To His Friend Chef Carl Ruiz's Sudden Death: "I'm Heartbroken"

From Delish

Carl Ruiz died unexpectedly on Saturday at the age of 44, PEOPLEreports. The celebrated Cuban chef oftentimes appeared on the Food Network, particularly on Guy Fieri's shows Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and Guy's Grocery Games.

Carl's New York City restaurant La Cubana—which he opened in the Meatpacking district just three months ago—also confirmed the news on Sunday morning in a heartbreaking Instagram post. While no official cause of death has been released yet, the restaurant noted the chef's passing was "sudden."

"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," the caption began. "No words can fully express our sadness at the sudden loss of our dear friend and brother."

Video: Guy Fieri’s Restaurant Chain Is Called ‘Chicken Guy!’

Even before La Cubana's confirmation, celebrity chefs who'd become friends with him over the years began posting tributes to the late chef on social media. Guy Fieri was one of the first to pay tribute to his late friend, 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."

Chopped's Alex Guarneschelli expressed her deep sadness as well: "My life will be lonelier without him. Love you Carl."

Jet Tila posted a message about Carl on Twitter, concluding by thanking Guy for bringing him into his life.

Messages from Food Network stars continued to pour in throughout Sunday afternoon:

Up until yesterday, Carl had been documenting eating his way through Maryland on Instagram.

You Might Also Like

• Crave Carbs? We Created This 21-Day Keto Plan Just for You!

• Insanely Easy Weeknight Dinners To Try This Week

• 29 Insanely Delicious Vodka Cocktails