Rachael Ray Speaks Out After Concerns About Health

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Rachael Ray has spoken out after concerns over her health arose on Monday after a clip from her show, Rachael Ray in Tuscany, raised some eyebrows.

The 56-year-old chef’s spokesperson declined to comment directly on the situation to TMZ on Wednesday, September 4, but Ray seemingly shifted focus by sharing a recipe for shrimp and chorizo paella on her Instagram account the same day.

The initial video that sparked the concerns aired Monday, Sept 2, and showed Ray seemingly struggling with her speech while recounting an anecdote involving the late Tony Bennett. Ray recalled a mishap where Bennett, while dining at her home, fell and hit his head, leading to a dramatic moment where she feared for his life.

Ray’s speech and appearance in the clip prompted various reactions from her followers. Some viewers speculated that she might be experiencing health issues such as Bell’s palsy or a mini-stroke, while others attributed her slurred speech to alcohol consumption. Comments on social media ranged from concern about possible health problems to accusations of drunkenness.

“I think it’s a mini stroke. Part of her mouth seems sinking. When was this????,” one user noted in the comments, while another stated, “She’s aging like the rest of us. Maybe she has a medical condition, maybe she is on medication. Regardless, no need to be mean.”

Others paid closer attention to her speech, leaving comments like, “I love her and yes, she’s drunk,” and “It’s obvious something going on and I’d say alcohol based on swollen face and body.”

Ray, who had vocal cord surgery in 2008, concluded her 17-season run on The Rachael Ray Show in 2023. She co-founded Free Food Studios and, according to Variety, later sold a 50% stake in the company to A&E Networks. This deal included the production of 278 new episodes over the next two years.