The online food community is dealing with the heartbreaking news of the tragic passing of one of their own. Michael Duarte, better known to millions of his followers as FoodWithBearHands, has passed away at the age of 36. Known for his mouth-watering barbecue videos and down-to-earth cooking style, Michael died following a tragic incident with police in Texas on November 8.
FoodWithBearHands: How It Began
Michael built a massive following of over two million people across his social media platforms. His style of cooking was about where he grew up, in California near the Mexican border. As a food influencer, he would showcase grilled meats and inventive flavor pairings that encouraged his audience to cook at home.
On his platforms, FoodWithBearHands was to many more than just the typical food influencer; he stood out as someone who was passionate and approachable, which resonated with his millions of followers. FoodWithBearHands’ journey to food influencer fame did not just happen overnight. His path to success started with his resilience.
As a teen, Michael worked in his uncle’s restaurant, where he learned to cook. He would also rise through the ranks at Ruth’s Chris Steak House house starting out as a dishwasher and becoming the General Manager. Later on, he had to face personal struggles, one of which was a mental health crisis during the pandemic that led him to rehab to seek help. Afterward, he poured his energy into content creation, building an empire from his love of food.
The circumstances surrounding his death are deeply saddening. While visiting family in Texas, law enforcement responded to a disturbance call. According to reports from the Medina County Sheriff’s Office, Michael allegedly threatened “to kill everyone” with the knife. This led to an encounter with the deputy, which resulted in Michael being fatally shot. The incident occurred just three days after he and his wife, Jessica, celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary.
How to Support Michael’s Family
A GoFundMe page was organized to support his family, explaining that the tragedy came without warning. The fundraiser aims to help with the unexpected costs of bringing him home to California and to provide stability for his wife and young daughter in the months and years ahead. It serves as a reminder that behind the larger-than-life online persona was a family man who will be profoundly missed.
Alooma Media Group, Michael’s talent agency, confirmed his passing in an Instagram post. They remember Michael as a “passionate collaborator and devoted family man.” They mention that his “warmth and creativity left a lasting impact.” Tributes flood the internet from fans and fellow creators, all mourning his loss. Help keep FoodWithBearHands’ legacy alive by firing up the grill, trying a new recipe, and sharing a meal with loved ones.
