I know that a lot of people who watch Top Chef also watch Hell’s Kitchen so I thought I’d share this news. Sadly, Paulie Giganti was found dead yesterday in his home. Today, local news in Philly is reporting that he died of what appears to be an accidental overdose.
Paulie was the last guy standing on the most recent season of Hell’s Kitchen until he was eliminated in fourth place leaving three female contestants vying for the prize. Born in Brooklyn, Paulie was executive chef at Birra, a pizza and craft beer restaurant in Philadelphia, Philly Mag reports. The restaurant posted the following announcement on Facebook.
It is with a heavy heart that we celebrate the life and mourn passing of Paulie Giganti.
Paulie came to us as a line cook and eventually elevated to executive chef. His care for our kitchen was only exceeded by his personality and love of life. We would not be the restaurant we are today with Chef Paulie’s efforts.
Our heart and condolences go out to his family and friends here in Philly, Pittsburgh, and of course, Brooklyn.
Like most chefs on these sorts of shows, Paulie had an arrogant attitude that often got checked by Gordon Ramsey. This sort of interaction between the two were part of what made the season so watchable.
A long time ago I kept a tally of all the reality folks who had died of suicide or drug overdoses. Then I just had to stop because it was too depressing.
So sad. I liked him. May God bless his family and all those who knew him.
Sad ending to a promising life.