Sunday, March 6, 2011

'Heart Attack Grill' Owner Dies














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Transcript by http://www.newsy.com

BY STEPHANIE STOUFFER
ANCHOR ALEX HOLLEY

You're watching multisource health video news analysis from Newsy.

"I'm up another few inches. Who needs these old pants? I can eat for free and thanks to our new health care law, I don't have to pay for my medical bills either." (YouTube / HeartAttackGrill)

Blair River was the larger than life spokesperson for the Heart Attack Grill in Tempe, Arizona, and now he's dead at just 29-years-old.

The cause of death has not been officially determined, but there's speculation it was a flu-related case of pneumonia. But that isn't stopping critics from blaming his job. The grill that promotes its unhealthy menu and glorifies obesity has been scrutinized since its opening for promoting its 8,000 calorie burger and all-you-can-eat french fries.

CBS News interviewed the owner of the restaurant back in 2008, who says he's fully aware of the risks of his menu.

"Our motto is simple -- taste worth dying for."

But was it worth it for River? Some say absolutely not. A blogger for The Stir says the grill took advantage of River's obesity and argues they should have helped him.

"The Heart Attack Grill loved having Blair River on staff because he was morbidly obese, not despite it ... People with unhealthy lifestyles don't need to be made fun of. They need help ... He did not deserve to die. But if people continue joking about being unhealthy ... People are going to die."

And a blogger for the Edmonton Sun points out the obvious irony of the situation.

"He's smiling. The nurse measuring his massive belly is smiling. Ha ha ha! Everybody, look at the fat man. He's so funny! Well, nobody's laughing now."

Phoenix's Fox affiliate talked to the owner after news of River's death and other than a few tears, he didn't have much to say.

"We all have a very, very brief time on this planet, and the measure of a man is how he leaves the world after he's been here. And I can tell you, Blair River was my friend."

But in light of the tragedy, the Daily Mail says maybe there's a silver lining -- more publicity.

"River's death will only bring more publicity for the originally themed diner - which, along with the ironic nature of his demise, would no doubt amuse him."

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Transcript by Newsy.