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‘Parts Unknown’ Host and Celebrity Chef Anthony Bourdain Dies at 61

While filming an upcoming episode for the CNN show Parts Unknown, host, celebrity chef, and adventurer Anthony Bourdain was found dead in his hotel room in France from apparent suicide. He was 61 years old.

Bourdain’s death was confirmed by the network in a statement issued via CNN’s social media pages. The statement reads:

“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 started off his career working as a chef in several restaurants around New York City and eventually became the executive chef at Brasserie Les Halles in 1998. In 2005, he began hosting the Travel Channel series Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations and The Layover before eventually making his way to CNN to host Parts Unknown.

According to Deadline, CNN chief Jeff Zucker issued a memo to staff calling Bourdain, “an exceptional talent. A storyteller. A gifted writer. A world traveler. An adventurer. He brought something to CNN that no one else had ever brought before. Tony will be greatly missed, not only for his work but also for the passion with which he did it.”

If you or someone you know needs support, here are some resources which can help:

  • Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Crisis Text Line, the free, nationwide, 24/7 text message service for people in crisis, is here to support. For support in the United States, text HELLO to 741741 or message at facebook.com/CrisisTextLine.
  • For support outside the US, find resources at https://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html