What Happened to Michael Duarte? Influencer FoodWithBearHands Death Explained

Food influencer Michael Duarte, best known online as @FoodWithBearHands, has tragically died while traveling through Texas. The California-based creator, beloved for his barbecue and grilling content, passed away on November 8, 2025, just days after celebrating his wedding anniversary with his wife, Jessica. The cause of death has not been made public, though his family described it as a “horrible incident.”

Duarte’s sudden passing has left millions of fans devastated. Known for his generous spirit and heartwarming approach to cooking, he built a community of over 2 million followers across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. His death was confirmed through a GoFundMe page and a tribute shared by his talent agency, both expressing deep sorrow and honoring him as a devoted husband, father, and friend.

Michael Duarte’s Death Details and Family Tributes

According to the GoFundMe campaign posted on his verified Instagram account, Michael Duarte died in a “horrible incident” while traveling through Texas with his family. The statement did not reveal specific details about the cause of death but confirmed that Duarte passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 8.

Duarte’s agency, Alooma Media Group, released a touching message describing him as “a devoted husband to his wife Jessica, a loving father to his daughter, brother, and a loyal friend to so many.” The agency emphasized how his content brought people together and inspired kindness through food. Fans have since flooded social media with condolences and tributes, sharing how Duarte’s warmth and humor impacted their lives.

Duarte’s social media bio read: “My purpose is to share food with people who need it the most.” That mission defined his content style, as he often highlighted community cooking, outdoor barbecues, and acts of giving back through food. His death has created a deep void among food lovers and digital creators alike.

Reactions and Legacy of @FoodWithBearHands

Tributes to Michael Duarte have poured in across platforms from fans, fellow influencers, and food brands. Many praised his humility and passion, recalling how his signature approach—literally cooking and serving food with his bare hands—symbolized his genuine connection to people. Hashtags like #CookForMichael and #FoodWithBearHands have since trended as fans honor his memory through their own cooking posts.

In addition to his viral cooking videos, Duarte frequently used his platform for good, donating meals and encouraging his audience to support local communities. His content consistently promoted positivity, gratitude, and togetherness—values that made him stand out in the world of food influencers.

Michael Duarte’s legacy will live on through the millions of people he inspired to cook, share, and care for one another. Though gone too soon, his message of kindness through food remains timeless.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Michael Duarte, also known as FoodWithBearHands?

Michael Duarte died in a “horrible incident” while traveling through Texas, as confirmed by his family through a GoFundMe post.

Q2: What was the cause of Michael Duarte’s death?

The cause of death has not been revealed publicly. His family described it as a tragic “horrible incident.”

Q3: Who was Michael Duarte’s wife?

Michael Duarte was married to Jessica Duarte. The couple had just celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary before his passing.

Q4: How many followers did FoodWithBearHands have?

Duarte had more than 2 million followers combined across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

Q5: How are fans honoring Michael Duarte?

Fans are honoring him by sharing recipes and cooking videos under hashtags like #CookForMichael and #FoodWithBearHands.