Fatima Ali, who became a fan favourite when she competed on Season 15 of Top Chef, has died of a rare form of bone cancer at the age of 29.
Ali, who was affectionately known as Chef Fati during her time on the show, was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma in 2017.
She was found to be cancer free in early 2018, but in September, doctors found that the disease had returned, and told her she had a year to live.
The chef wrote candidly about her terminal diagnosis in a feature for Bon Appetit magazine, sketching out a plan to eat at as many New York restaurants as she could in the time she had left.
Chef Bruce Kalman, who competed with Ali on the show, shared a heartfelt tribute to his friend on Instagram earlier today. He wrote:
“It’s with a heavy heart we say goodbye to Fatima Ali today, as she has lost her battle with cancer. I will miss you Fati, and you will be in my heart forever. I’ll always remember the great times we had, especially our interview during the tailgating episode discussing football, stadiums, and Taylor Swift.”
Season 15 winner Joe Flamm wrote in tribute to his friend:
“My heart is so broken today, thanks for gracing my life, meeting my son, being my friend, and letting me into your incredible existence, I’ll miss you more than you can know. Until I see you again, I’ll keep a bottle of whiskey and a coffee cup ready for you.”
R.I.P.
