Anthony Bourdain’s official biography from ‘those who knew him best’ is the works

To millions of people around the world, Anthony Bourdain was more than just a chef with a travel show. He was an inspiration — a prolific storyteller committed to celebrating diverse food cultures.

Now, to honor Bourdain, who died on June 8, friends of the late television host will lend their stories to his official biography, which is set to publish in the fall of next year.

Laurie Woolever, Bourdain’s assistant and long-time collaborator, is on board to edit the collection, “Bourdain: The Oral Biography.” Ecco Press, an imprint of HarperCollins, will release the title.

Woolever, who co-wrote Bourdain’s last book, “Appetites,” told Eater, “I’m honored to now be working with his estate, and talking to the people who knew him best, in order to share the story of a life that influenced so many people, in so many ways, all across the globe.”

It is unknown who will contribute to his oral biography, but Bourdain knew many famous chefs and had them as guests on his show, including Eric Ripert, David Chang and Marcus Samuelsson.

Bourdain, who hosted CNN’s “Parts Unknown,” died by suicide earlier this month in Kaysersberg, France, near the town of Strasbourg. He was filming an upcoming episode for his award-winning travel food series at the time of his death.

The late veteran chef was a bold personality who impacted millions of lives with his honesty and humor. He inspired foodies and non-foodies alike, and his influence continues to be felt.

If you or someone you know are in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.