Guy Fieri's Touching Tribute To Fuller Goldsmith Has Fans Shedding Tears

Although public figures lead lives that are distant from our own, it is upon witnessing their highs and lows that a universal human connection becomes evident. Fans of the "Chopped Junior" and "Top Chef Junior" series are coming together to honor and cherish the memory of Fuller Goldsmith, who died of cancer at the age of 17. Goldsmith was a remarkable young chef who won "Chopped Junior" in 2017, wowing viewers across the country with his positive attitude and impressive kitchen skills (via E Online).

Shortly after winning the series and donating his monetary prize to the hospital ward where he underwent treatment for cancer, Entertainment Weekly organized a meeting between Goldsmith and one of his favorite chefs: Guy Fieri. Goldsmith met Fieri in 2018 at the Stagecoach Festival in Indio, California, and the enthusiasm was mutual. Fieri praised the young chef for his bravery in the face of cancer as well as for his courage to compete in "Chopped Junior" and "Top Chef Junior." Goldsmith recounted having watched countless hours of Fieri's Food Network shows, including "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," during recovery, which ultimately inspired him to step into the kitchen.

On Wednesday, October 6, Magical Elves media, the production company behind "Top Chef Junior," confirmed on Instagram the news of Goldsmith's death (via Today). Mirroring the thoughts of many, their post read, "We are devastated after hearing about the loss of our 'Top Chef Junior' alum, Fuller Goldsmith. He was an incredible chef and the strongest kid we've ever met. From the minute he was introduced to us, we knew he would make an impact on everyone around him and be a positive force in [the] cooking world. To his family, we give all our love as they mourn the loss of someone truly special."

One of the many people Goldsmith made an impact on was Guy Fieri, who posted a photo on his Instagram account of his first time meeting Goldsmith. "What Fuller accomplished in his life and the example he set for people battling cancer was remarkable," Fieri wrote. "RIP, Fuller Goldsmith."

The comments on Fieri's Instagram post made it clear that Goldsmith was an inspiration for many. "He was such a beautiful, brave soul, what an impact he made on the world," one wrote. 

His cooking abilities were certainly remembered, and one commenter noted he was a "brave young man with such talent." Fieri's post, along with the heartwarming picture of his first encounter with Goldsmith, provided a space for fans to share their memories of the young chef. Thanks to his bright perspective on life, no matter the state of his health, Goldsmith will live on as a source of inspiration for many.