Gladys Bourdain called in to The Today Show this week.
The mother of Anthony Bourdain opened up in this back-and-forth about how she learned of her son"s tragic suicide, while describing the celebrity chef and author as "feisty and very talented," as well as someone who was a "lover of people of all kinds."
As previously detailed across the Internet, Bourdain committed suicide last Friday by hanging.
His body was discovered in the bathroom of his French hotel room by close friend Eric Ripert.
Since this awful news went public, numerous celebrities, loved ones and colleagues have released statement of sympathy, shock and sorrow in regard to Bourdain.
But there"s understandably something extra troubling and depressing when hearing from Bourdain"s mother.
Gladys says that she learned of her son"s death from his younger brother, Christopher.
She told Today she had last heard from Bourdain on Mother"s Day.
Were there any signs at all that anything was wrong? Any signs she could see of anything like this coming?
"Not a one," she replied.
Bourdain, who truly made it big on television in 2005 with the series "No Reservations," was open over the years about his drug addiction and his past debt issues.
The Kitchen Confidential author and "Parts Unknown" host had spoken candidly about his past struggles in various interviews.
"He didn"t disguise anything or take on any act of persona,"" Gladys said on Today, explaining how his on-screen personality reflected his off-screen demeanor:
"He was who he was, and it was out there for everyone to see."
Following Bourdain"s passing, girlfriend Asia Argento released a statement in which she referred to him as her "love," saying in full:
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.
Watch the following video to hear more from Bourdain"s mother:
