Famed chef and television personality Anthony Bourdain has died at the age of 61.

CNN confirmed that the host of the network's series "Parts Unknown" killed himself in France, where he was shooting an episode of the show.

He was found unconscious in his hotel room by his friend Eric Ripert, the renowned chef behind the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Bernardin.

In a statement, Ripert said, "He was an exceptional human being, so inspiring and generous. One of the great storytellers of our time who connected with so many."

Bourdain left an indelible mark on New York City, running several kitchens in New York before gaining fame with the best-selling book "Kitchen Confidential" in 2000, which exposed the underbelly of the city's restaurants. 

From there, he moved into television, hosting shows on the Food Network, the Travel Channel and CNN. He covered food and cultures from every corner of the world.

Bourdain was known for his honesty about food and his personal life. He was open about his substance abuse and previous heroin addiction.

Bourdain leaves behind a young daughter.

Tributes and condolences poured in for Bourdain in New York City.

The renowned chef was known to bring his greater audience to far reaches of the world, exploring their cultures and cuisines. 

In the restaurant industry here in New York City, he also touched many lives, particulary small, family-owned businesses.

At Barney Greengrass on the Upper West Side, they left an empty chair in Bourdain's honor.

The table was set with his usual breakfast order, Nova Scotia lox and egg scramble.

The staff there said Bourdain's humble humor will be greatly missed. 

On the Upper East Side, French restaurant Le Veau D'or was featured on "No Reservations." Their appearance on the show turned the business around and saved the owners from hard times.

"He had the guts to step up and sort of bring it back to life," said Cathy Treboux of Le Veau D'or. "And as i mentioned earlier, it was very hard for me, because Anthony Bourdain saved Le Veau D'or and saved my father. He gave my father the greatest last chapter."

The outpouring of emotions showed that it wasn't always about the food. Bourdain got into the heart and soul of those restaurants and the people who worked and ate there.