On the morning of Friday, June 8th, the world was shocked by the tragic report that Anthony Bourdain — famed chef, author, and television star — had been found dead at 61 years old. Bourdain’s body was found in France by his friend and fellow chef, Eric Ripert, and his death is believed to be a suicide. The devastating news has resulted in many speaking out about him, and now one of the closest people to him has made a statement about the beloved culinary expert. Bourdain’s girlfriend, Italian actress Asia Argento, just released a heartbreaking message about his death, and it makes our hearts ache for her.
Argento released a statement about Bourdain’s death on Twitter, saying, “Anthony gave all of himself in everything that he did. 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.”
Argento, 42, had met Bourdain in Rome when the two collaborated on an episode of Parts Unknown in 2016. They began dating a year later, and according to People, she was heavily involved in his work. Argenta directed an upcoming episode of Parts Unknown set in Hong Kong, and Bourdain often went to her for her thoughts on music and film.
It doesn’t seem like Argento and Bourdain were together the Thursday before his death. According to People, Argento had been sharing videos and photos on her Instagram story throughout the day, all with the Rome geotag. As Bourdain was found in France, it doesn’t make sense that the two had been near one another. Three hours before Bourdain’s death was reported, Argento posted a photo on her Instagram story that said, “F— EVERYONE” with a caption, “You know who you are.” It has since been deleted, and we have no idea whether there’s a correlation between that story and his death.
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Whatever had happened between the two before Bourdain’s death, it certainly seems like they were happy together. Bourdain spoke with People earlier in the year about their long-distance relationship, saying, “I want to spend as much time with her as I can.”
Bourdain was known for Parts Unknown, as well as the show No Reservations. He had also written several books — one, titled Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly, was a behind-the-scenes look at the chaotic, sometimes messy (and sometimes adventurous) life of a chef.
We wish for the best for Argento, Bourdain’s family, and his friends during such a tragic time.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
