Emmy-Winning TV Star Dies at 61 Due to "Acute Allergic Reaction"

Michael Chiarello, a celebrity chef and former Food Network star, had a lucrative career. In addition to opening restaurants and wineries he became an international celebrity hosting shows on PBS, Food Network, Fine Living and Cooking Channel, appearing as a guest chef on the "Today" show and "The View," and winning an Emmy for his cooking show "Easy Entertaining With Michael Chiarello," which ran for 10 seasons on Food Network. However, over the weekend the celebrity chef passed away. Here is what you need to know about his death. 

Michael Chiarello died at the age of 61 on Saturday. He was being treated at Queen of the Valley Medical Center in Napa, Calif.

He suffered an acute allergic reaction that led to anaphylactic shock, according to his company Gruppo Chiarello announced in a statement. He is survived by his wife, Eileen, and his four children. 

"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," the Chiarello family shared in a statement. 

"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," they continued. 

"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," the statement ended, 

"Chef Michael Chiarello's passion for food and life will forever be etched in our kitchens and our hearts," added his longtime partners in Gruppo Chiarello. 

"While we mourn Michael's passing, we also celebrate his legacy that continues with his restaurants, Bottega, Coqueta (San Francisco and Napa Valley), and Ottimo," they continued.

"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."

According to the Mayo Clinic, anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. "It can happen seconds or minutes after you've been exposed to something you're allergic to," they say. Examples are peanuts or bee stings. 

In anaphylaxis, the immune system releases a flood of chemicals that can cause the body to go into shock. "Blood pressure drops suddenly, and the airways narrow, blocking your breathing. The pulse may be fast and weak, and you may have a skin rash. You may also get nauseous and vomit. Anaphylaxis needs to be treated right away with an injection of epinephrine. If it isn't treated right away, it can be deadly," they add.