For the time that Lidia Bastianich has been on PBS, her mother Ermina Bastianich, or "Grandma" as she is known to fans, has been a huge part of Bastianich's shows. So it was devastating for Bastianich's viewers when, on Friday, Lidia went on social media to share her heartbreaking news about her beloved mother with fans, saying (via Twitter).

"My dear mother, Erminia, affectionately known as 'Grandma' passed away quietly at home with me and the immediate family several days ago. Our team will be dedicating many of my future posts to her as we get through this difficult time." For the time that Lidia Bastianich has been on PBS, her mother Ermina Bastianich, or "Grandma" as she is known to fans, has been a huge part of Bastianich's shows.