Nancy Putkoski is known mainly as the first wife of Anthony Bourdain, a world-renowned chef, writer, and travel documentarian.
Her name often appears in discussions about Bourdain’s early life and personal story. Many want to know more about her background, marriage, and current life.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Nancy Putkoski
- Date of Birth: April 8, 1955
- Age: 70 years old (as of 2025)
- Zodiac Sign: Aries
- Nationality: American
- Religion: Christianity
- Marital Status: Divorced
- Ex-Spouse: Anthony Bourdain (Married 1985, Divorced 2005)
- Children: None
Where Did She Grow Up and Study?
Nancy Putkoski was born in Fort Lee, New Jersey, on April 8, 1955. Public records do not mention her family background. She attended Dwight-Englewood School during the 1970s, where she met Anthony Bourdain, who was a year behind her.
According to Bourdain, Nancy had a rebellious streak. He once described her as part of a crowd that experimented with drugs.
Despite that, she was academically focused. She completed high school and influenced Anthony to speed up his studies. Both of them later joined Vassar College.
What Did She Do After College?
No official details confirm her professional career. She did not speak publicly about her work or business life.
Based on available sources, she stayed home during her marriage and focused on their private life. Her lifestyle after the divorce remains undisclosed.
Anthony Bourdain, on the other hand, gained global fame. He worked as an executive chef at Brasserie Les Halles in New York. His 2000 book, Kitchen Confidential, became a bestseller and made him a public figure.
Bourdain also hosted multiple TV shows. These included:
- A Cook’s Tour (2002–2003)
- No Reservations (2005–2012)
- The Layover (2011–2013)
- The Taste (Judge, 2013–2015)
Apart from food, he also wrote fiction and travel-based nonfiction.
How Much Is Nancy Putkoski Worth?
No verified information confirms her earnings or financial details. No public job or business is listed in her name. Her net worth remains unknown. Her ex-husband, Anthony Bourdain, had an estimated net worth of $16 million before his death.
How Did Her Marriage to Anthony Bourdain End?
Nancy Putkoski and Anthony Bourdain started dating in high school. They remained close through college and married in 1985. Their marriage lasted nearly twenty years, and the couple had no children.
Bourdain’s busy travel schedule strained their relationship. They tried to fix things but failed to reconnect emotionally. They separated in 2004 and divorced in 2005.
After the divorce, Nancy avoided public attention. Anthony later married Ottavia Busia in 2007. They had one daughter. That marriage ended in 2016. He then entered a new relationship with actress Asia Argento.
How Did Anthony Bourdain Die?
Anthony Bourdain passed away on June 8, 2018. He was found dead in his hotel room at Le Chambard Hotel in Kaysersberg, France. The cause of death was suicide by hanging. His sudden death shocked fans and the culinary world.
Is Nancy Putkoski Active on Social Media?
Nancy Putkoski stays away from the public spotlight and does not use social media platforms. After divorcing Bourdain, she chose to live a quiet and private life.
