Anthony Bourdain has died at age 61

The culinary world is reeling this morning after reports that chef, author, and television star Anthony Bourdain has died of an apparent suicide. Bourdain, 61, was in Paris filming an episode of his CNN television series ‘Parts Unknown’. In a statement, CNN said “It is with extraordinary sadness we can confirm the death of our friend and colleague, Anthony Bourdain. 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.”

Bourdain rocketed to stardom following his first article in the New Yorker which led to the publication of his tell-all memoir Kitchen Confidential. The book, along with the rise of TV shows glamorizing chefdom, helped lead to a renewed interest in the profession. ‘Kitchen Confidential’ also foreshadowed some of the industry’s problems like substance abuse and sexism in the workplace. 

Through his pioneering television shows, which have aired for nearly 15 years on different networks, the former chef introduced people to new cultures and expanded their culinary horizons. His work led to several awards, including a Peabody Award in 2013 for ‘Parts Unknown’. Recently Bourdain became an outspoken advocate for women in the #metoo movement. 

The star had battled several demons in his life, including substance abuse and depression. His death, along with other recent high profile suicides, shows that mental health issues affect everyone regardless of success or financial status.  If you, or anyone you know, is suffering from depression, please know that there are people who can help. Following is a list of free resources available to anyone who needs help:

• In the United States, the National  Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• In the UK, visit www.samaritans.org to find a list of help lines
• In Canada, visit suicideprevention.ca for an up-to-date list of Distress Lines across Canada by province and territory
• In Australia, visit the website Lifeline or call 13 11 14. They also offer a online chat service
• In New Zealand, Lifeline Aotearoa provides free 24-hour counseling and phone help lines. Call 09 5222 999 if you live within Auckland or 0800 543 354 for those outside of Auckland