Rayya Elias
Rayya Elias was a close friend and partner of author Elizabeth Gilbert, known for her vibrant personality and tumultuous battle with addiction and terminal cancer. Their relationship deepened over the years, culminating in a romantic partnership just before Rayya's passing in January 2018. Rayya's life and struggles were poignantly captured in Gilbert's writings, particularly in the context of love, addiction, and the complexities of caregiving during terminal illness.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Gilbert describes falling in love with her friend Rayya Elias.
Is love addiction real – and what does it look like? | Well actually
United Kingdom· 2025-12-02
Rayya Elias had terminal cancer and was Gilbert’s late, beloved partner.
Facing my fears without alcohol has been a revelation – The Irish Times
Ireland· 2025-10-21
Rayya Elias was Gilbert’s best friend before she became her lover, a romance that begins only after Rayya is diagnosed with terminal cancer.
All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert review – excruciating to read | Autobiography and memoirUnited Kingdom· 2025-09-11
Rayya Elias was Gilbert’s hairdresser who became her best friend, lover, and partner until her death in January 2018.
Eat Pray Love author Elizabeth Gilbert on addiction, grief, codependency and her new book
Australia· 2025-09-06
Rayya Elias was a close friend and partner of Elizabeth Gilbert, who struggled with addiction and terminal illness.
Eat Pray Love author Elizabeth Gilbert on leaving her marriage for a dying friend: ‘She said, Let’s just live balls to the wall until I die!’ | Elizabeth GilbertUnited Kingdom· 2025-08-30