How did Brian Malarkey's girlfriend Danielle Harley react to his medical emergency?

Harley initially called for medical assistance, despite Malarkey's protests, as his condition quickly deteriorated. She recounted the incident on their podcast, describing Malarkey's brush with mortality.

What did Brian Malarkey think was happening to him during the medical emergency in Italy?

Malarkey was unsure if he was having a stroke or heart attack, but at one point he "saw the white light" and felt the spirits calling him, thinking he might not survive.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / TV Chef Cheats Death, Shares Harrowing Italy Ordeal

TV Chef Cheats Death, Shares Harrowing Italy Ordeal

Q: What happened to TV chef Brian Malarkey in Italy?

Brian Malarkey, a regular on Food Network shows, suffered a medical emergency while on vacation in Italy with his girlfriend Danielle Harley. He experienced seizures and thought he was going to die, but ultimately survived the ordeal.

14 Nov

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Summary

TV personality Brian Malarkey had a medical emergency while on vacation in Italy
Malarkey experienced seizures and thought he was going to die, but survived
Malarkey's girlfriend Danielle Harley recounted the incident on their podcast

TV Chef Cheats Death, Shares Harrowing Italy Ordeal

In November 2025, popular Food Network personality Brian Malarkey, 53, shared a terrifying medical incident that occurred while he was on vacation in Italy with his girlfriend Danielle Harley, 35. The couple were playing tennis when Malarkey suddenly experienced a frightening episode, seeing dark spots and feeling like he was going to pass out.

Harley called for medical assistance, but Malarkey initially resisted, feeling embarrassed and not wanting to cause a scene. However, his condition quickly deteriorated, with Malarkey describing "complete chaos" and "full-blown seizures" that left him feeling "scared to death." At one point, he told Harley "I love you" in case he didn't survive.