The California content creator died in a “horrific incident” on Nov. 8 while traveling in Texas, according to GoFundMe, although the cause of death is unclear.
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Food influencer Michael Duarte has died.
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According to the California content creator, he died in a “horrific incident” on November 8 while traveling in Texas. GoFundMealthough the cause of death is unclear.
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A GoFundMe was created to support his family after his death, namely Jessica, his wife of nine years, and their six-year-old daughter Oakley.
“We ask that you keep Michael's family in prayer during this extremely difficult time,” the description on the donation page continues.
“This grief came without warning, and Jessica had to bear the cost of bringing him home to California and covering funeral expenses.”
Known on social media as @foodwithbearhands, Duarte shared cooking videos, recipes and his delectable creations with his more than two million fans on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.
“My goal is to share food with the world for the people who need it most,” his Instagram bio reads.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our valued client and dear friend Michael Duarte,” his talent agency, Alooma Media Group, wrote in an Instagram post.
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“He was a true and dedicated partner, a reliable employee and, above all, a wonderful person,” the statement continued.
“His passion, professionalism and creativity left an indelible mark not only on our team, but on everyone who had the privilege of working with him.”
Duarte's first match a bookmarked Instagram post tells his “story” in which he details how he grew up in a small town near the US-Mexico border, got his first job and learned to cook at the age of 14 at his uncle's small Mexican restaurant.
The influencer shared how he worked at several restaurants in the San Diego area and quit his job during the COVID-19 pandemic to start posting cooking videos on social media.
After a period of rehab from a “mental health crisis,” Duarte began working at a new restaurant and again posting videos online on weekends.
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“My first time was with my daughter,” he wrote. “That's when I realized how happy creating content makes me. Over time, I began to realize that this is not just a hobby – it can be a business, something bigger than myself.”
A tribute from his talent agency noted Duarte's dedication to his family and friends and how his “warmth, kindness and generosity were felt in every interaction.”
They added: “Michael's passing is a huge loss to all who knew him. His legacy of integrity, compassion and dedication will live on in the lives he touched.”
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