Rachael Ray, the beloved celebrity chef and television personality, has recently opened up about her personal life and challenges during a podcast episode of her new show, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead. The episode, which aired on October 22, 2024, featured guest Jenny Mollen and provided insights into Ray’s recent struggles with injuries that have temporarily hindered her ability to engage in her favorite household activities.
During the podcast, Ray, who is 56 years old, candidly shared that she experienced a couple of “bad falls” in the weeks leading up to the recording. This unfortunate series of events has kept her from participating in her usual chores, which she genuinely enjoys. “I really like chores,” Ray expressed, highlighting her affinity for physical work, including cooking and organizing. “I like making dinner, planning dinners, making lists. I love physical labor, helping carry in the wood,” she added.
Despite these challenges, Ray appeared to be in high spirits just days earlier, as she hosted her annual Burger Bash event at the Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival on October 18. The event, which showcases culinary talent and delicious burgers, saw Ray take the stage alongside her husband, John Cusimano, where they announced the winner of the popular burger competition. Ray enthusiastically thanked the attendees, saying, “Thank you all for coming out.”
In addition to discussing her recent falls, Ray also delved into her marriage with Cusimano, a musician and lawyer whom she married in 2005. The couple’s dynamic was a topic of conversation during the podcast, where Ray humorously described their approach to resolving disagreements. “It’s very hard, especially for hot-tempered or creative or vociferous loud people to be able to just calm it down,” she remarked. Ray admitted that she and Cusimano often have “huge screaming matches,” but she believes this is a healthy way to communicate. “I really do. And I don’t trust people that are too quiet,” she added, emphasizing her preference for open and honest dialogue.
When Mollen inquired about who typically initiates an apology after their arguments, Ray responded with a lighthearted approach. “I don’t know that we ever apologize to each other,” she said. Instead, the couple has developed their unique way of reconciling, often through affectionate gestures. “Eventually I pat him on his ass or he kisses me on the head, and that’s just sort of it. That’s the apology. It’s just sort of understood. ‘I still like your ass.’ ‘I still like your head.’ It’s kind of in that zone,” Ray explained.
Ray’s openness about her life, both the ups and downs, resonates with her fans, who appreciate her authenticity. Her podcast aims to provide unscripted, raw, and real conversations, allowing listeners to connect with her on a personal level.
As she navigates her recovery from her recent injuries, Ray continues to inspire her audience with her passion for cooking and her vibrant personality. Whether hosting events or sharing her life experiences, Rachael Ray remains a cherished figure in the culinary world.
