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.

Malarkey was unsure if he was having a stroke or heart attack, but as he turned to his side, he "saw the white light" and felt the spirits calling him. Fortunately, Malarkey ultimately recovered and was taken to the hospital, where doctors determined it was likely a panic response. The incident left Malarkey grateful to have overcome death, saying "I just overcame death. I had a finger in death's door right there."