In a poignant revelation, Laurie Woolever, who served as Anthony Bourdain’s personal assistant for nearly a decade, has shared intimate details about the renowned chef and television personality’s final days. Her insights offer a glimpse into Bourdain’s emotional state during his last moments, particularly concerning his relationship with actress Asia Argento. Woolever’s account underscores the complexity of Bourdain’s feelings and the challenges he faced in the weeks leading up to his untimely death in June 2018.

The Unseen Emotions Behind the Iconic Persona

Bourdain’s public persona was one of adventure and exploration, but Woolever reveals a more vulnerable side. She describes managing not only his professional life but also being deeply involved in his personal affairs. The assistant highlights how Bourdain’s affection for Argento was intense and all-consuming. One telling incident involved a mishap with Italian customs when Bourdain wanted to send Argento a carefully curated collection of vinyl records. His reaction to this minor setback revealed the depth of his emotions.

Woolever’s role extended beyond her job description; she was a confidante and support system. She recalls how Bourdain’s mood shifted dramatically after an Italian magazine published photos of Argento kissing another man. When approached by media outlets, including the National Enquirer, Bourdain instructed Woolever to ignore the inquiries but keep him informed. This event marked a turning point, where the strain on their relationship became increasingly apparent. Woolever observed that tensions were high on set, and everyone around Bourdain walked a fine line between offering support and respecting his privacy.

The Last Moments and Legacy Left Behind

Woolever’s final interactions with Bourdain paint a picture of someone grappling with inner turmoil. On the eve of his tragic end, Bourdain asked Woolever to schedule appointments for his return to New York. In a heartfelt message, she expressed concern for his well-being, to which he responded, “I’ll live, and we’ll survive.” This response left Woolever with lingering questions about the meaning of ‘we.’

The next morning, Woolever received a call from Bourdain’s agent, Kim, informing her of his suicide. Found by his close friend and fellow chef Eric Ripert, Bourdain’s death sent shockwaves through the culinary and entertainment worlds. Woolever’s memoir, "Care and Feeding," slated for release on March 11, promises to provide further insight into the man behind the camera. Her reflections serve as a tribute to Bourdain’s legacy while shedding light on the complexities of fame and personal relationships.