Rachael Ray Shares Health Update & Admits to ‘a Couple Bad Falls’ in Recent Weeks
Rachael Ray has spoken out about her physical health for the first time since fans grew concerned about the celebrity chef following a video last month where she appeared to slur her speech.
On Tuesday, October 22, Ray launched her new podcast, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead. The longtime Food Network favorite was joined by actress and Jason Biggs’ wife Jenny Mollen for the premiere episode.
Ray sounded articulate and in good spirits as she opened up about her home life with her husband John Cusmino in Lake Luzerne, New York. “I am a homemaker. I love chores, I love being in the kitchen… I really like chores,” she shared. “What people consider physical work… I like making dinners, planning dinners, making lists.”
She went on to profess her love of “physical labor,” however, she admitted physical chores have been on pause in recent weeks because she had suffered a few falls.
“I like to help carry in the wood,” she explained. “I had a couple of bad falls in the last couple of weeks so I haven’t been doing that in a while.”
She added: “I love carrying wood. How many pieces of wood did John carry? Can I carry more? I don’t say that to John, I just say that to myself.”
Ray did not specify the nature of her falls or if they had anything to do with the state she appeared to be in during her recent video.
In early September, Ray shared a video from her FYI series Rachael Ray in Tuscany where she appeared to be slurring as she spoke, others crassly said she looked “puffy.” It led many on social media to speculate that something might be wrong with Ray and put forward a number of unsubstantiated theories.
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According to TMZ, when the star’s rep was asked about the video, they were told, “No comment.”
A week later, Ray took to Instagram to repost another clip from her FYI series where she shared her recipe for Rabbit Ragu. However, she didn’t address the fan concerns from her previous video.
This left fans wondering if the 56-year-old would comment on her podcast as to why she appeared to be slurring, and whether she’d open up about any health issues.
Last year, Ray said goodbye to her self-titled talk show after 17 seasons, having hosted the program since 2006. She went on to co-found Free Food Studios, selling a 50% stake in the company to A&E Networks in January 2024.
Ray’s new weekly podcast is described as follows: “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead (quite literally!) is about life’s journeys and what keeps us going,” Ray said in a statement. “It’s unscripted, raw, and real talk. Working fuels me, connecting with people fuels me, and this platform allows for connection and conversation on a more personal level, which really fuels me.”
October 29’s episode brings Billy Crudup of The Morning Show. Other guests in future weeks are Bob Harper, Anne Burrell, Harlan Coben, Jacques Pepin, Jeremy Sisto, and Billy Porter.
Conversation129 Comments
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O
Rachel's health issues are no one's business but her own. Everyone else needs to keep their noses out of it.
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Well said
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True, but she is/was in the spotlight and people are gonna ask no matter what.
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People can ask but that doesn't mean she has to answer. Her health is her business and she can be private about it or super open. Fans can express concern for her but can't demand her answer. You wouldn't ask a stranger in the store what was wrong with them if they looked sick.
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Exactly weird for word what I would’ve replied back to this response. She doesn’t owe anybody any explanation or information especially anything private. Just because she’s in the spotlight does not mean she has to be an open book.
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G
Of course she doesn’t, but she has to own the reality that she has two choices: tell people what’s up or let them worry and wonder. I had to face that decision with my disease. I knew that the truth was far better than just letting seeds of doubt take root in the minds of people who saw the signs of a problem. She’s choosing to do appearances where she’s slurring her words. That creates a situation.
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True. It can be a very private thing, something you have to come to peace with emotionally, even for a very outgoing person, before sharing it. I'm very outgoing myself, and it took me 9 months to tell anyone outside my immediate family that I had Hashimoto's.
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I was concerned and glad to hear she seems to be doing well now! Concern is caring and need not be about being nosy. I agree with you that nosy people should be gone!
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I understand people being concerned but I do agree with this commenter that if Rachel is having health issues and does not wish to discuss them - it is absolutely her business and no one else’s. Many people are extremely private with their health or other struggles and that’s how they may be comfortable dealing with an problem. Also who wants private information being misconceived all over the place with possible false information or opinions or for even that matter trolls speaking “behind your back”.
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R
Then don’t be a personality in front of millions of fans.
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O
It's her life and not yours. Grow up and stop complaining. When she is ready than she will say or publish it, or announce it. Give her some space and time. She doesn't owe anyone any explanation and doesn't have to answer to anyone bout the man above.
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G
I don’t think that’s true when people feel genuine concern about someone who chooses to be a public figure. If the speculation is cruel and irresponsible, that is, of course, wrong. But that’s not what I’m seeing. I’m seeing expressions of concern about very realistic possibilities. It’s not realistic of her to think this could go any other way.
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When your lifestyle is a publicity type, it is only fitting to continue to be open and honest to your fans. If she did not want the public to know anything about her then she should not have had a public show. Plain and simple. Capire?
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Yours is in it by making thos comment karen!
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P
I wonder if her doctor checked her for Multiple Sclerosis. I have MS and my symptoms are very similar. Also, she looks like maybe she’s on steroids. She has that “Moonface” which is common in people taking steroids.
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It's also common in autoimmune diseases such as hashimoto's thyroid disease. Or hypothyroidism.
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I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis last year. I was in a thyroid storm. And all the symptoms were what I experienced. My doctor told me my thyroid levels were almost fatal! I pray she gets some medical help and recovers as best as she can from whatever may be ailing her.
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M
When I saw that last photo of her, she looks just like my cousin did just before she was dx’d with MG (Myasthenia Gravis)
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I'm 4 years into MG. Puffy face, definitely. With the double vision, I have a very hard time judging distances, so I'm prone to tripping or falling. Sending well wishes to all.
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G
Exactly this! I also have MS and saw the similarities immediately. It could be any number of issues, of course, and I wish her the best. I had to make the difficult decision to disclose my condition to my work because I had a couple of bad falls and didn’t want people speculating that my sweet husband was responsible for the black and blue face. It would likely benefit her to be open about her condition because the truth is better than speculation.
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I have MS also and have had very similar symptoms at times
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P
I had double vision and my right eye was completely shut when I was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis , but I’ve not fallen
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G
When you fall sometimes you are given steroids to help fix things. Not sure why but they like that 7 day one.
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C
I had that “moonface” what she needs is rest her body and it could be Bell’s palsy or something. I would not speculate anything. She and her family wish to keep it private for her sake. Just prayer is what she needs from everybody. Hang in there R 🙏🙂
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B
'It could be Bell's Palsy but, I would not speculate anything.' You just did! That's hilarious.
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G
I had Cushings disease due to a Pituitary tumor. I got very puffy and a moon face too. That was my thought about Rachel.
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O
Should also check Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
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P
Maybe she's just Fat
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I also have MS.
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My late sister was on prednisone for over a year for “autoimmune disease”. She was on so many meds and her body as well as her face, looked like Rachael. Sadly, when she was diagnosed with fatty liver disease, she did nothing to improve her diet,and took so many prescriptions, including an antacid for her hiatal hernia rather than having surgery. She said it wasn’t Zantac, but whatever she took was probably just as harmful, and she died of uterine cancer.
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G
Rachel Ray brought us many years of delicious ideas, all the while telling us that she is not a chef, that may have encouraged millions of ordinary cooks to have inspiration to do great things in the kitchen. Also lovely food for our dogs and cats inspired by her own animals. so stop criticizing this woman who brought ordinary food to new heights, together with famous chefs and other interesting people to her TV kitchen table. Thanks Rachel! It's been fun😍 please take care of yourself and we will still cherish the cook books.😊
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Her name is Rachael...
R-A-C-H-A-E-L! Good grief. You're such a fan, right🤦🏻♀️
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Her name is Ray Chill.
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Someone spelling her name incorrectly does not give you permission to be rude and question if they are a fan. Please be kind. In a world with so much negativity, kindness does matter.
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R
I'm sorry but she's not said anything. She's had a stroke or Bells Palsey which isn't a big deal if people know. On steroids to treat Bells Palsey and its a good idea to tell people you have it or a stroke as they can know in case you get worse or have another one. She's doing herself a great disservice..
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MS fits as well. I am purely speculating and have no real information on her health, but I am on the same page with you. At a point, the truth is so much better than having rumors spread. I wish her the best.
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O
I'm sure her family and those close to her are aware of her condition. She really doesn't have to share to anyone beyond that. It's her personal choice.
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It's her choice when and what she disclosed so get over yourself. Weirdo
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I'm sure her family and those close to her are aware of her condition.
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So, it's a big deal if people don't know?
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G
It’s obvious that health isn’t her priority. She has gained so much weight, and the food she cooks and eats is heavy on meat and fat.
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O
Wishing Rachel Ray well. I’ve always enjoyed her shows.
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Have you? Because her name is Rachael 🤦🏻♀️
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Wishing her well. I have enjoyed all of her shows for many many years. She is very talented and fun!
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Whether it's simple as weight gain or something more serious it's up to her to decide if she wants to speak about it or not and all the speculation in the world isn't going accomplish anything. The mentality that people think they should know everyone's business has gotten out of hand Let her live her life the way she chooses.
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I pray that whatever’s wrong with her body she is healed in the name of Jesus. God bless you Rachel, get well soon. You have so much love to give.
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I wish her well wishes. She is an idol to me she has over come so much and keeps on truckin.. she was a heavy smoker and quit a few years back. Since than she has put on a couple pounds. But still adorable!! I do have a concern about her drinking. 🙏🏼🙏🏼 she isn’t drinking to much.
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I remember watching her at the beginning and I've always loved her show,I'm so glad to hear she's feeling better.
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She's in her midlife, she's enjoying herself as what she does best, criticizing someone who's career has made her quite professional, is canny! We can't stay young forever, but if u feel good, live life to fullest, she loves traveling, to Italy, have fun lass!!
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Rachel I love you take care of yourself what wonderful person you are God Bless you
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AMEN to what key6640 said
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She looks like she has a mild Bell’s Palsy and is on steroids.
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When I look at the photo of how beautiful Ray used to be and then watch this video of an overweight woman with no makeup and stringy hair, I feel so sad. When did she stop caring? Celebrities like Jane Seymour, who is 20 years older and still take care of themselves are inspirational. Sadly, I can no longer watch Rachel. I think something must have affected her mentally to look like this, as if she just does not care about herself. Depression?
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Special lighting and crepe erase does not work.
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R
I loved her early days when she traveled and hosted $40 a day vacation meals.
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Rachael Ray's health issues are her own business. I have MS, and the symptoms are similar, but it could be anything. She'll disclose the info if and when she's ready.
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I think she has MS, poor girl
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Cushing's Syndrome
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I also loved watching her show. But she should be honest as to what's going on with her. With her platform she can help others, instead of hiding the truth. When things are obviously wrong, just say the truth!
Wishing you well.
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Wishing her all the best
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Yes. I love Rachael and I agree she looks different. I know the fire took a toll on her. Let's give her a broke and just enjoy her
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Am I the only one who thinks the older Rachael gets, the YOUNGER she looks?? ❤️
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Wishing Rachael Ray the best ,anytime you are on my TV channel will stop there I love watching you .you seem so down to earth, and your receipts are amazing, thank you for sharing with all of us.
Prayers for good health
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J
I took my daughter with me to see her in person on her Racheal Ray live show in New York. She is amazing! We had so much fun! You have many years left to enjoy everything in life❤️
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T
It is typically due to a tumor secreting steroids so it is removed in most all situations.
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Speculation is pretty normal when caring people are concerned for an individual.
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I don’t see that much weight gain just a definitely altered face that is very possibly related to steroids or some type of therapy that causes a round face. Plus, to me, there is something off about her communication.
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I have been watching her new tuscany show n the show in New York after her house fire. I really enjoy these newer shows-she is simply everyday n normal acting. Really enjoy them plus John n her sister is in alot of them. She’s make cooking seem easy for the average person … really enjoy both her newer shows - She’s normal!
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Rachel ray was nice to watch. Hope does good recovery. I agree with lorr9539
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Please look into the carnivore diet. It has helped people with MS. No carb life on YouTube .
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G
I think we should leave her alone and worry about ourselves.
Love ❤️ Racheal Ray ❤️
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R
Really Is it anyone’s business as to what or what she may be hiding…leave her alone!
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B
We know she misses John who she said is away alot.
She is having a rough time and thoughts and prayers.
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G
I miss you and your show, hope to see you soon on tv again. Feel better and take care!
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I’m glad she’s feeling better I’ve liked her since day one with her food traveling days. She more than likely has health issues like the rest of us who get older. I’m glad she’s doing well. Her and Jon make a cute couple. Wish them the best. 🙂
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O
That definitely crossed my mind. I have MS and it seems what she’s going thru, sounds so similar. Especially, the falling down. I pray shes doing better. 🙏🏻
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R
How she succeeded on TV for that long with absolutely no talent is shocking, middle America sitting home getting fat on the sofa .. I wish her well but dammm, she is one fortunate woman to have had that run ..
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O
She looks like she had a stroke! Maybe mini strokes?
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C
I have watched her on TV for years. I loved her cooking and tried many. My favorite was her Chicken Parm Pasta Toss/ I still make this often. Praying she is well.
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O
She clearly has something medically going on. She quit her show, and the name of her new podcast speaks volumes. From my perspective it looks like she’s fighting cancer. I wish her health & happiness in 2026.
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G
I agree! She would also have her sister carry anything heavy for her on the show.
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C
I just said the exact same thing to my husband. I also have MS, so I know what the steroids do. When I was diagnosed in 2006, the left side of my face dropped, and they thought I had a stroke at 21 years old until they did the MRIs and spinal tap. I wish you all the best. I know this MonSter can be horrific. 🙏🏼
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As Whoopie Goldberg in Ghost would say"Girl uess in Trouble"...or Oprah got pissed at her and put a ugly spell on her. You know witches and their spells..
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O
It looks like she had a stroke because of the way one side of her face droops. A fall as she claims she had wouldn't have caused this, however, why wouldn't she say so. It's nothing to be ashamed of.
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C
Looks like Balls Palsy or stoke as others have mentioned.
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R
I think she is great, she is beautiful, articulate and great with food and telling stories around the food and her experiences in travel and life, love you Rachele
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B
I think she needs to check her A1c
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G
I've watched Rachel Ray from beginning till now. She's no doubt aged, but life happens. I've been a healthy individual and I had no choice, get COVID shots or lose out on your life and livelihood. I'm also noticing my health, body, and mind suffering. I was thriving before. Nothing changed other than that era we went through. Good or bad, we did what was best for us, our children, livelihood and now some other serious questions. Stop judging, but start praying that we are okay, by doing what we had to do to save and support ourselves families and lives.
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C
Did she get the cov-id Vax and boosters? Probably why. Just saying
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O
Looking at her at this point I would say she has Bell's Palsy and something highly stressful brought on a flare. That is pure speculation but I do have a friend with it and the symptoms jive
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C
Eats and drinks to her content.
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C
She's probably just a little bit drunk. She kind of looks like she had a few drinks
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G
I hope and pray for her to get well and comes back to work, u love love love her and her shows, books, she is my favorite, ❤️🙏🤟🙏❤️
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She drinks like a fish. She prolly was tanked. Wouldn't surprise me at all.
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C
I think that people in the public eye have a right to keep medical conditions to themselves and when and if they want the public to know they and only they should inform the public. To speculate is not right. Just offer your prayers that the person pulls through there medical difficulty.
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Why do people comment on women when they get older? SHE is amazing at any stage in her life, generous and kind
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O
I think she is wonderful.. people should mind the own business! Or just 🤐🤐
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R
I can watch her show as long as her greasy head husband is not in there. The guy nobody has ever heard of .
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I wish her the best.
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Have she been checked for hemiplegic migraines? My mimic MS and I'm high risk of stroke from it. My eas very difficult to diagnose and most doctors said I was crazy. I've been pretty much laid out for the last 2 months from my condition. Today is the first day in the last few months where I can actually walk around although I'm still in severe pain. Hope she gets well soon and get a right diagnoses
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G
I have always loved Rachael Ray her cooking her stories she’s a charming little doll faced lady. She brings me joy
Her business is her business, being a celebrity must be so hard, cause being just a regular Joanne we get scrutinized by others.I hope she’s not sick if she is I’m praying for her, and if she had too much wine, Good for her! Julia Childs loved wine 😂 Love you Rach sending love and light your way!
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B
She has had a stroke
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O
Always enjoyed watching her on TV and have several of her cookbook’s I use. Use her dog food for 6 dogs too. So good!
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R
She seems like she's had a little bit more wine than necessary...I'm a recovering alcoholic believe me when I tell you I can pick you out of a crowd off a 1000 people when you're drunk
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C
The new Rosie O'Donnell! 😆
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C
She has multiple sclerosis
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Keep your spirits up. So many people love you so much. Take Care.
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O
Miss your show and I hope you are happy. Praying for you. 🙏🏼
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K
I must admit I thought she might be having a guillain barré syndrome flare. I haven't watched her show in years but do catch something on her once in awhile.
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R
Falls could be a symptom of a problem. I hope she is seeing her doctor. She is a lovely person.
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O
Rachel Ray- has your thyroid been checked thoroughly by an endocrinologist? If not, have it checked ASAP!
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C
What a misleading article. Told us nothing
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O
I started watching Rachel Ray when she started the show “30 minute meals” I always cooked from scratch for my family and I got a lot of ideas from Rachel. I remember when she married John in Italy and I would drive home from work very fast to watch her show every afternoon at 5:00pm!!!!
Go Rachel!
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G
It looks like alcohol abuse has taken over.
We all know she drinks.
When you give up something (TV show) that takes up most of your time, you need something else to replace it, correct?
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C
Personally I think she has a problem with alcohol. Get help!!
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She looks like she's gained 50 lb.
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Maybe she should lay off the HoHo’s
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What do i think ..ive always wondered if she was Tipsy while filming ...and just watching the video i think she just has a drinking problem
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Best wishes and prayers love Rachel Ray her shows are amazing!!!!!!!!
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R
If it were a “health” reason, she would have already said something. Showbiz folks love sympathy. She was probably two sheets to the wind. She looks like a drinker. 🤷🏼♀️
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O
I've always suspected Rachel has a problem with alcohol.
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She took the Cvd jabs? Explains a lot of weird things happening to people lately.
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Love Rachel and her recipes! If you ask me it’s just plain old alcohol causing these problems. I think she may have a drinking problem
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I think she's a snatch. I've seen her treat some of her guests terribly. Quit watching and never turned back.
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alcoholism
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Starting to get that Rosie O'Donnell look to her
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M
And we're supposed to feel sorry for her? Why? It's not like she'd care what happened to anyone that wasn't a close friend or family member.
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