Anthony Bourdain Dead After Committing Suicide at 61

The celebrity chef and TV host was found dead in his hotel room in France on Friday morning, CNN reported. He was there to film an episode of his travel show "Parts Unknown," which airs on the cable news network and is in its 11th season.

"It is with extraordinary sadness we can confirm the death of our friend and colleague, Anthony Bourdain," the network said in a statement. "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 began his ascent to fame in 1999 after writing a New Yorker article, "Don't Eat Before Reading This," which earned him a book deal to write 2000's "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly."

He launched his TV career with "A Cook's Tour" on the Food Network in 2002, then joined the Travel Channel in 2005 to star in "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations," which scored him two Emmys. In 2013, Bourdain moved to CNN star in "Parts Unknown."

The Travel Channel released a statement reading, "We are stunned and deeply saddened to hear that the world is now without its global ambassador, Anthony Bourdain. He was an incredible talent who showed us beautiful, gritty, complicated and delicious places in every corner of the world. His wit and perspective will be missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time."

Bourdain's death comes just days after designer Kate Spade's suicide shook the world. Click here to see famous fans from all walks of life mourning the death of the rock star chef, writer and TV host.

If you are ever experiencing suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.