The cooking world is grieving for one of its own today. Chef Carl Ruiz, owner of the New York restaurant La Cubana who made a name for himself on the Food Network series Guy's Grocery Games, passed away suddenly at the age of 44. A cause of death has not yet been released but the news was confirmed on his restaurant's Instagram page. Among what the post said was "Beyond his immense culinary talent, Carl's larger-than-life personality never failed to entertain, enlighten, and uplift every person he encountered along his #Ruizing adventures."
Ruiz's celebrity chef friends added their tributes, with Guy Fieri saying, "I have no words to describe what a great friend he was to me and my family. His ability to make me laugh and smile under any circumstances was only outshined by his talent as a chef. Over the years, I’ve met a lot of great people but a friend like Carl is one in a hundred million. Carl 'The Cuban’ Ruiz will forever live on in my heart and in those of all who loved him."
Meanwhile, Jet Tila wrote, "You taught us how to enjoy every moment to the fullest and not live wondering what if! You are gone way too soon @carlruiz! I will always be #ruizing! You will be remembered by us all! #RIP my friend. Thank you @guyfieri for bringing Carl into all of our lives."
However, when asked for a comment on Ruiz's passing, Paula Deen responded in a way that has ruffled some feathers. While appearing on The Big Jay Show, Deen, who made headlines in 2013 for admitting to using the N-word, explained, "I'm not familiar with him but I'm so sorry to hear that. You know, they say the restaurant business will kill you. No pun intended."
Deen laughed at what she said, but commenters definitely did not find it funny. One person stated, "Is it just me or does #PaulaDeen prove YET AGAIN what a HORRIBLE PERSON SHE REALLY IS. Making fun of a deceased person is so LOW. Glad @FoodNetwork took out the TRASH years ago. Her family must be embarrassed. The late #CarlRuiz deserves better and so do his family and fans."
Another wrote, "How sad to see Paula Deen once again speak without thinking about Chef Carl Ruiz's untimely death. Apparently, she didn't learn her lesson after losing her empire after racial slurs several years ago. Is it insensitivity or just plain ignorance? I'm thinking of the latter."
One wrote, "Your insensitive comments about chef Carl Ruiz are so embarrassing," another person said. "Haven't you learned anything at your old age? Your ignorant and not funny.. " and a different commenter said, "When will you learn to shut your mouth?" someone asked. "Or else show some decency. Chef Carl Ruiz was truly loved by many and your tasteless (pun intended) comment shows a lack of class and heart."
Deen's defenders call it a harmless joke, but many disagree. As yet, Paula has not responded to the comments.
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