In an Instagram video honoring the late Tony Bennett by cooking his favorite dish, chef Rachael Ray appeared to struggle with her speech. Fans noticed some “slurring” in her words and that part of her face seemed to droop, sparking concern. Comments quickly poured in, with some followers speculating about potential health issues like alcoholism or a possible stroke.
One viewer commented, “I think it’s a mini-stroke. Part of her mouth seems to be sinking. When was this????” Another user added, “She’s aging like the rest of us. Maybe it’s a medical condition, maybe she’s on medication. Regardless, there’s no need to be mean.” Others also speculated, with one saying, “It’s obvious something is going on. I’d guess alcohol due to her swollen face and body.”
In a comment filled with concern, another fan wrote, “One corner of her mouth is lower than the other. As a nurse, I would urge her to be checked for any side effects from a stroke or Bell’s palsy. Life is just too short.”
Others called for compassion: “She might be drunk… I hope all is well, and maybe you just had one drink too many… Praying for you.” Another wrote, “Can we stop being internet doctors? Rachael Ray has spent years in this industry. If she’s facing a health issue, let’s wish her well instead of name-calling or making fun of her. What’s wrong with some people?”
Ray, who posted the video in September, didn’t immediately respond to the speculation. She later addressed the conversation during the debut episode of her podcast, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead.
The 56-year-old chef shared her love for household chores, saying, “I’m a homemaker. I love chores. I love being in the kitchen,” and added, “I work with my brain every day, always writing something, but I really enjoy doing chores.”
She continued, “I like what people consider physical work. I love making dinner, planning meals, making lists. I love physical labor, like helping carry in the wood.”
Rachael Ray at North Shore Animal League America’s 2024 Celebration of Rescue in NYC in June. Getty Images |
Ray also mentioned a friendly competition with her husband over household tasks. “‘How many pieces of wood did John carry? Can I carry more? I don’t tell him that—I just keep it to myself,” she said with a laugh.
Ray also revealed that she had taken “a couple of bad falls” recently, which temporarily interrupted her routine, though she didn’t elaborate on specifics.
While she didn’t fully address the viral video directly, she offered some context that may ease fans’ concerns.
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