**Guy Fieri Commemorates Late Friend Carl Ruiz on What Would Have Been His 51st Birthday**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/guy-fieri-carl-ruiz-040626-06db77cc48f0484987c6cb7d4a498183.jpg)
April 4 marked a poignant occasion for fans of the Food Network as Guy Fieri paid tribute to his late friend, Chef Carl Ruiz, on what would have been his 51st birthday. Ruiz, fondly known as ‘The Cuban’, tragically passed away in 2019 at the young age of 44 due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
On this significant day, Fieri took to Instagram to honour his friend with a heartfelt post. In his touching caption, he wished a “happy birthday to the one and only Chef Carl ‘The Cuban’ Ruiz” and added, “We all miss you brother!” The accompanying photograph captured Ruiz enjoying a moment of leisure, seated on a medieval-style throne at the beach, donning a pinstripe apron and sunglasses while holding a towel and a drink.
Fieri’s annual tribute has become a heartfelt tradition since Ruiz’s untimely death. Each year, Fieri commemorates his friend’s life not only on his birthday but also on the anniversary of his passing. In a previous remembrance, posted on 21 September 2025, the celebrity chef expressed his emotions profoundly, stating, “I miss you so much my brother Chef Carl.” He reminisced about Ruiz’s infectious spirit, saying, “You cooked, you laughed, you lit up the world, you are one of a kind. RIP the CUBAN.”
The comments section of Fieri’s tribute was flooded with love and support from followers and fellow chefs. Food blogger Catherine McCord wrote, “FOREVER 🤍🤍🤍🤍,” while Tiffani Faison, winner of the Tournament of Champions season three, added, “🫶🫶🫶.” Another user expressed gratitude for Fieri’s annual celebration of Ruiz, remarking, “I love that you celebrate Carl each year 🖤.”
Fieri’s posts not only highlight his personal grief but also honour the legacy Ruiz left behind. It is clear that Ruiz was much more than just a colleague; he was a cherished friend. In a previous post made shortly after Ruiz’s death, Fieri expressed his deep sorrow, calling Ruiz a “great friend” whose laughter and culinary talent were unmatched. “Over the years, I’ve met a lot of great people, but a friend like Carl is one in a hundred million,” he lamented.
Ruiz was known for his vibrant personality and remarkable culinary skills, having made a significant impact in the Food Network realm as a judge on programmes like Guy’s Grocery Games. His life and untimely passing have left a profound effect on colleagues and fans alike, who continue to remember him fondly.
His death was attributed to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, a serious condition characterised by the buildup of fats and cholesterol in the artery walls, which can lead to reduced blood flow in the body, according to medical sources, including the Mayo Clinic.
Fieri’s commitment to keeping Ruiz’s memory alive is a testament to their deep bond, evident through each annual tribute. The impact of their friendship resonates not only with Fieri but with countless others who were touched by Ruiz’s warmth and extraordinary talent.
As Fieri continues to celebrate Chef Carl Ruiz each year, it is clear that the culinary world has lost a treasure, but his legacy is kept alive through the heartfelt memories shared by friends, family, and fans. As Fieri stated so movingly, “Carl ‘The Cuban’ Ruiz will forever live on in my heart and in those of all who loved him.”