Rachael Ray
BUILD Series/YouTube Screenshot

Celebrity chef Rachael Ray has spoken out to shut down persistent rumours about her health, appearance, and behaviour, insisting she is 'absolutely fine' and busier than ever.

The 57-year-old television icon, best known for The Rachael Ray Show, has faced weeks of online speculation after fans claimed she looked 'different' and acted 'odd' in public appearances.

Now, in a defiant response, the Emmy-winning star says the changes are due to hard work, ageing, and a demanding career — not illness.

Rachael Dismisses Health Concerns

Appearing at a Food Network event in New York City, Ray addressed the gossip directly. 'I'm constantly working my ass off,' she said bluntly. 'I never left — I've been working tirelessly.'

Her remarks follow the end of The Rachael Ray Show in July 2023 after 17 successful seasons. The programme's conclusion sparked widespread speculation that the presenter had stepped away due to health problems, but Ray insists she has shifted focus.

A Shift from TV to Streaming

Ray hasn't disappeared; instead, she has been focusing on other ventures. She said that much of her new cooking content has now been moved to streaming platforms, indicating a shift towards modern media.

'The audience has changed,' she noted, 'as has the way we communicate via food.' 'I am just keeping up.'

Friends believe the chef has gladly embraced this new era, although her diminished visibility on traditional television has fed incorrect notions about her health.

Fans Voice Worry Over Her Appearance

The speculation arose when fans observed Ray's physical changes over the previous two years. According to reports, she gained over 28 pounds on her petite 5-foot-3 frame, while others noted instances in which she appeared to slur her words or have drooping lips during a cooking video.

Ray addressed the significant online conversation on her I'll Sleep When I'm Dead podcast, revealing she had suffered a few 'bad falls.' She didn't expand, but her honesty did little to dispel the speculation.

'Bizarre' Public Moments Fuel Online Debate

Observers have noted her 'bizarre' attitude during other appearances, such as a Meals in Minutes clip where she appeared distracted and a July event promoting her gin line, when she was unusually enthusiastic.

'Clearly something is going on,' claimed one source at the time, 'but it's not as dramatic as people think.' Insiders now say Ray is fed up with the continual speculation and unwanted spotlight.

Rachael Fights Back at Critics

Despite the online scrutiny, Ray has remained defiant. 'People can say whatever they want,' one source recalled her as saying, 'but no one can question how hard I work.'

Her close friends describe her as 'fed up' but driven, putting her displeasure into her profession. 'You can hardly blame her,' a source stated. 'She's become a mystery to fans, but all she's really done is move forward.'

Throughout it all, Rachael Ray has demonstrated that her enthusiasm for cooking and her tenacity have not waned. As one admirer put it, 'People are just hoping she's all right. But knowing Rachael, she's tougher than anyone gives her credit for.'