Emmy-winning chef Anthony Bourdain’s girlfriend Asia Argento took to Twitter on Friday, June 8, to express her heartbreak hours after news broke of Bourdain’s death.
As previously reported, the acclaimed chef and television personality was in France working on an upcoming episode of his CNN series Parts Unknown when he was found unresponsive in his hotel room by his close friend and fellow chef Éric Ripert. CNN first reported the news, confirming that Bourdain had died by suicide. He was 61.
"Anthony gave all of himself in everything that he did,” Argento shared on Twitter. “His brilliant, fearless spirit touched and inspired so many, and his generosity knew no bounds. He was my love, my rock, my protector. I am beyond devastated. My thoughts are with his family. I would ask that you respect their privacy and mine."
The couple’s relationship became public in February 2017. The Italian actress was featured throughout the season 8 finale episode of Bourdain's Parts Unknown, which was shot in her native Rome.
In a statement on Friday, CNN confirmed his death, sharing: "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."
His death comes just days after iconic fashion designer Kate Spade died of an apparent suicide at her Manhattan apartment on Tuesday.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).