Friend who found Anthony Bourdain's body released heartfelt statement about chef

Eric Ripert, Anthony Bourdain’s best friend, released a statement after the famous chef’s recent death. Ripert took to social media to share on his friend’s character.

The post written on Twitter was shared on Friday, the same day Bourdain was found dead. As a tribute, Ripert included a picture of himself and his best friend during happier times.

French chef Ripert, 53, was the one who discovered Bourdain’s body. The TV cook, author, and presenter was unresponsive in the hotel room in Strasbourg.

Bourdain, 61, had died by suicide. On the same day, Ripert released a statement on his long-time friend and paid tribute to the legendary chef.

In the post, Bourdain was called ‘One of the great storytellers who connected so many.’ Ripert ended his message by wishing his friend peace and sending out his love and prayers to Bourdain’s family, friends, and loved ones.

The two chefs were in Eastern France filming a new episode of Bourdain’s show, Parts Unknown. The late star’s girlfriend of two years, Asia Argento, 42, also spoke out about the loss she had suffered.

‘Anthony was my best friend. An exceptional human being, so inspiring & generous.’

Eric Ripert, Twitter, June 8, 2018

On social media, she wrote that her boyfriend had given all of himself in everything that he did. She revealed that his brilliant and fearless spirit had touched and inspired so many, with his generosity knowing no bounds.

Argento called him her love, rock, and protector. She confessed that she was devastated and shared that her thoughts were with his family.

The couple met in 2016 while filming his TV show in Italy. This was shortly after he had separated from his second wife, Ottavia Busia.

CNN, the channel on which his popular food and travel documentaries was aired, confirmed the news of his passing on Friday.

‘It is with extraordinary sadness we can confirm the death of our friend and colleague, Anthony Bourdain,’ their statement read. The network honored the chef’s great talents and also offered their prayers to his family and daughter.

In this touching video, we remember those we`ve lost this year.

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