What's Happening?
Michael Duarte, a well-known barbecue influencer and chef, tragically passed away in Texas during a family trip. Duarte, who shared his culinary skills under the Instagram handle 'Food with Bear Hands,' died shortly after celebrating his ninth wedding
anniversary with his wife, Jessica Duarte. The cause of his death has not been disclosed. Duarte was originally from Calipatria, California, and began his culinary journey at the age of 14 in his uncle's Mexican restaurant. He later moved to San Diego, where he worked his way up in various restaurants. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Duarte faced a mental health crisis that led him to rehab, after which he found a passion for creating cooking videos, amassing 12 million followers across social media platforms. His sudden death has prompted a GoFundMe campaign to support his family, including his wife and their 6-year-old daughter, Oakley.
Why It's Important?
Duarte's death is a significant loss to the food influencer community, where he was celebrated for his creativity and passion for barbecue. His influence extended beyond cooking, as he was a trusted collaborator and partner in various ventures, including a recent partnership with The Cooking Guild to design a specialty cleaver. The cleaver, which features a bear design, sold out quickly after his passing, with proceeds going to support his family. Duarte's impact on the culinary world was profound, as he inspired many with his journey from a dishwasher to a social media sensation. His passing highlights the challenges faced by influencers, including mental health struggles exacerbated by the pandemic.
What's Next?
The community continues to rally around Duarte's family, with ongoing support through the GoFundMe campaign. The Cooking Guild's tribute and the sale of the cleaver demonstrate the lasting impact Duarte had on his followers and collaborators. As the food influencer community mourns his loss, there may be increased awareness and dialogue around mental health issues within the industry. Duarte's legacy is expected to endure through his culinary contributions and the support of his fans and colleagues.
Beyond the Headlines
Duarte's story underscores the pressures faced by influencers in maintaining their public personas while dealing with personal challenges. His journey from a mental health crisis to a successful influencer career highlights the resilience required in the industry. The response to his death, including the rapid sale of his designed cleaver, reflects the strong community bonds and the potential for collective action in times of need. This incident may prompt further discussions on the support systems available for influencers facing similar challenges.
