"He was my love, my rock, my protector."
Many tributes were paid following the
sudden passing of celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain on Friday at the age of 61.
Former President of the United States Barack Obama was among many household names recalling fond memories, as he tweeted out a photograph of the pair enjoying a meal together in Vietnam.
https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1005117568913412098
Now, actor and girlfriend of Bourdain, Asia Argento, has released a statement via her
official Twitter account.
"Anthony gave all of himself in everything that he did," Argento begins.
"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."
https://twitter.com/AsiaArgento/status/1005116310366269440
CNN confirmed Bourdain's death on Friday morning, stating that Bourdain died by suicide.
"It is with extraordinary sadness we can confirm the death of our friend and colleague, Anthony Bourdain," the network said in a statement Friday morning.
"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 was in France at the time of his death, working on an upcoming episode of his award-winning CNN series. Eric Ripert, the French chef, found Bourdain unresponsive in his hotel room Friday morning.
For anyone who feels affected by this article, please freephone one of the many Pieta House or Samaritans networks around the country. 
