Remembering Anthony Bourdain: A Closer Look at His Legacy and Family
Tony was not only a longtime friend of the company but practically family to Ariane, our founder, for whom he named his daughter. The world mourned when CNN announced the news of Anthony Bourdain's suicide on Friday morning. All of us at D’Artagnan are devastated by this loss, and our community has been deeply affected ever since.
The Life and Times of Ariane Bourdain
Ariane Bourdain was born on April 9, 2007, weighing 7 lbs, 9 ozs. There’s some disagreement over how to pronounce her name—Is it Ah-ree-AN or Ah-ree-ANA? Despite the debate, one thing is certain: Ariane has remained largely out of the spotlight since her father's passing. Even as she approaches her teenage years, she continues to live quietly with her mother, Ottavia Busia-Bourdain, in New York City.
There was once a photo of her singing, but beyond that, sightings of Ariane Bourdain have been rare. In fact, the only widely available image of her is a newborn shot shown on 60 Minutes. This photo underscores the private nature of her upbringing, emphasizing the protective instincts of both her parents.
A Father's Love for His Daughter
Anthony Bourdain had an immense love for his daughter. Friends and family recount stories of him making breakfast for Ariane and later teaching her how to cook. Their bond extended beyond meals; they shared interests like watching animated shows together. As Ottavia recounted in interviews, Tony took great joy in being a hands-on dad, even if it meant indulging in cartoons like Archer.
One memorable moment came during a Parts Unknown episode filmed in Hong Kong. On June 13, 2015, Bourdain posted a picture titled “Ariane Over Tokyo,” capturing a glimpse of their travels together. Such moments highlight the deep connection between father and daughter, one that transcended professional achievements.
Grieving and Moving Forward
After Bourdain's tragic death in 2018, the world rallied around his loved ones. His will left the bulk of his $1.2 million estate to Ariane, with Ottavia named as executor. Though still young at just 11 years old at the time, Ariane demonstrated resilience. She occasionally honored her father through subtle gestures, such as performing in concerts where her mother captured photos for Instagram.
In 2022, Laurie Woolever, Bourdain's former assistant, released Bourdain: The Definitive Oral Biography. Through interviews with close friends and family, including Ariane, the book provides intimate insights into their relationship. It reveals how much Bourdain cherished his role as a father and dedicated much of his life to ensuring Ariane's happiness and well-being.
Where Is Ariane Bourdain Now?
As of recent updates, Ariane Bourdain remains largely out of the public eye. Now a teenager, she continues to stay focused on her personal growth while honoring her father's legacy. Her decision to remain private reflects a desire to navigate adolescence without undue attention.
Despite the passage of time, the impact of Bourdain's death lingers. For those who knew him personally—and for millions who admired him from afar—the void he left behind feels immeasurable. Yet, there's comfort in knowing that Ariane carries forward her father's spirit, embodying the same curiosity and compassion that defined him.
A Final Thought
Anthony Bourdain's influence extended far beyond the culinary world. He inspired countless individuals to explore new cultures, embrace diversity, and connect with others through shared experiences. For Ariane, his greatest gift may have been the unconditional love and support he provided throughout her childhood. As we remember Bourdain, let us also celebrate the life he touched and the legacy he entrusted to his daughter.
