Ryder Fieri, the 19-year-old son of celebrity chef Guy Fieri, is making a name for himself both on and off campus. As he navigates his first year at San Diego State University, Ryder is demonstrating a newfound maturity and commitment to family, much to the delight of his famous father.
Guy Fieri recently shared his pride in Ryder’s growth during an announcement for his annual Super Bowl party, Guy’s Flavortown Tailgate. “Ryder has grown so much in the last six months, it is mind-blowing,” Guy told PEOPLE.
Currently enrolled in the hospitality program at San Diego State, Ryder is also working with the university’s basketball team. This dedication to his work and studies reflects a significant step in his personal development. “Maybe it’s that thing of going off to college and starting to realize what home life was and so forth. He’s just been super, way more family oriented and attentive,” Guy commented.
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One particularly touching moment highlighted Ryder’s maturation. Guy recounted a conversation with his mother, Penny, who was nearly in tears describing a recent phone call from Ryder. He had called her out of the blue, simply to check in and see how she was doing. This unsolicited gesture of kindness deeply resonated with Guy, illustrating Ryder’s growing empathy and consideration for his family. “And now he’s doing stuff like that. So he sure is growing up,” Guy remarked.
Ryder’s commitment extends beyond his family to his work with the San Diego State basketball team. “The commitment that he has working on that team — getting up early and going to all that — he really loves it,” Guy shared. “He’s really tuned in. He’s doing great.”
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This year, Ryder celebrated his 19th birthday with a low-key trip to Mexico with his girlfriend and friends. This preference for a more relaxed celebration further underscores his maturing personality.
Looking ahead, Ryder is likely to join his family in New Orleans for Super Bowl LVIII and Guy’s Flavortown Tailgate on February 9th. The free event will feature food from restaurants showcased on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, along with performances by Diplo, Flavor Flav, and Cowboy Mouth.
