Celebrity chef Rachael Ray has finally addressed concerns from fans after a recent Instagram video sparked fears about her health. In the video, Ray, 56, appeared to slur her words, leading fans to speculate whether she might be suffering from alcohol issues, Bell’s palsy, or even a mini-stroke.
Ray’s slurred speech became a topic of discussion after she posted a heartfelt tribute to her late friend, Tony Bennett. In the video, she shared a funny yet alarming memory about the time she almost accidentally injured the legendary singer. Recalling the incident, she said, “When I pulled out the chair for Tony to sit down for his starter snacks and aperitivo, the chair slid out from under him, and he hit his head on my marble counter behind him, and he fell to the floor.” She added with humor, “I thought I killed Tony Bennett. I thought I killed him, literally”, according to Daily Mail.
Ray continued, recounting how Bennett’s wife, Susan Crow, reassured her: “Rachael, he’s fine. He’ll pop back up. Just let him be.” Bennett, ever the gentleman, recovered and enjoyed the rest of the meal. Ray reflected fondly, saying, “I miss my friend so much. The most beautiful man, maybe ever.”
While the memory brought laughter, fans couldn’t help but notice something was off. Many expressed concern about Ray’s speech, which seemed slower and more labored than usual. In the comment section, one worried fan wrote, “I love you but are you okay? I’m seriously concerned.” Another speculated, “She looks and acts like she has been drinking all the time. I love Rachael but she’s so hard to watch like this.”
Others feared it could be a more serious medical issue. “I think it’s a mini-stroke. Part of her mouth seems sinking. When was this? This makes me so sad,” a third person commented. These concerns only grew as fans recalled similar moments in Ray’s videos from the past month, but this latest post seemed to escalate worries.
Despite the outpouring of concern, Ray’s representative responded to TMZ with a brief statement, saying there was “no comment” on the matter. The silence hasn’t deterred fans from speculating, but many have rallied behind her, urging others to be more compassionate. One fan defended the chef, writing, “Can we stop being internet doctors? If she’s going through a health issue, let’s wish her well… calling her names or making fun of her is downright terrible.”
For now, the beloved chef continues her work, sharing recipes and memories with her followers while speculation swirls. Whether health-related or not, her fans remain hopeful for more clarification in the future.