Anthony Bourdain, the famous chef and Peabody-winning host of CNN’s “Parts Unknown”, has died at 61.
CNN confirmed the news Friday morning, noting the cause of death as suicide.
“It is with extraordinary sadness we can confirm the death of our friend and colleague, Anthony Bourdain,” CNN said in a statement. “His love of great adventure, new friends, fine food and drink and the remarkable stories of the world made him a unique storyteller. His talents never ceased to amaze us and we will miss him very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughter and family at this incredibly difficult time.”
According to The New York Times, Bourdain was found dead by close friend and chef Eric Ripert having hanged himself in his hotel room in the village of Kaysersberg, France on Friday morning. He was in the country working on an upcoming episode of his acclaimed TV series.
“Anthony was a dear friend,” Ripert told The New York Times. “He was an exceptional human being, so inspiring and generous. One of the great storytellers of our time who connected with so many. I wish him peace. My love and prayers are with his family, friends and loved ones.”
In 2000, Bourdain gained notoriety for his tell-all memoir Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly. He went on to host the hit Travel Channel series “Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations” before joining CNN in 2013.
Bourdain was nominated for 18 Emmys over his television career, with wins four years in a row from 2013 to 2016 for his work on “Parts Unknown”.
In the wake of the #MeToo movement, Bourdain was an outspoken ally of harassment victims along with his partner Asia Argento, one of Harvey Weinstein’s accusers.
Speaking to reporters Friday, Donald Trump said, “I want to extend to his family my heartfelt condolences. I enjoyed his show, he was quite a character.”
Reaction quickly poured in from friends, co-workers, and fans on Twitter.
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention, Depression Hurts and Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868) all offer ways for getting help if you or someone you know is suffering from mental health issues.
