Anne Burrell, the beloved Food Network star known for her fiery personality and culinary expertise, passed away on the morning of Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at her home in Brooklyn, New York. She was 55 years old. The news of her sudden death has sent shockwaves through the culinary world and her legions of fans who admired her both on and off the screen.
Burrell’s family released a heartfelt statement reflecting on her vibrant spirit: "Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered. Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal." She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, whom she married in October 2021, her stepson Javier, her mother Marlene, her sister Jane, and her brother Ben, as well as her children Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas.
The circumstances surrounding her passing remain under investigation. According to the New York Police Department's 76th Precinct, officers responded to a call at 7:50 a.m. about an unconscious and unresponsive woman. Emergency Medical Services pronounced Burrell deceased at the scene. A spokesperson for the New York City Fire Department revealed that the 911 caller reported she had gone into cardiac arrest. The Office of Chief Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death.
Anne Burrell’s culinary journey began early, inspired by her mother’s home-cooked meals and the legendary Julia Child. She graduated from Canisius College in Buffalo with a degree in English and Communications in 1991 before pursuing her passion at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, graduating in 1996. She further honed her skills abroad at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners and worked in notable New York City restaurants including Felidia under Lidia Bastianich and Savoy, where she specialized in Mediterranean cuisine.
Her television career took off when she joined Food Network as a sous-chef on the original Iron Chef America series in 2005, serving as Mario Batali’s sous-chef. She competed on "The Next Iron Chef Super Chefs" and was a contestant on the first season of the "Chopped All-Stars Tournament." Burrell became a household name as the long-time host and co-host of the reality cooking competition "Worst Cooks in America," a show she helmed from 2010 to 2024, mentoring amateur cooks and transforming culinary novices into confident chefs. The show ran for 28 seasons, making it one of Food Network’s most enduring hits.
Beyond "Worst Cooks in America," she appeared on numerous other Food Network programs, including "Chef Wanted With Anne Burrell" (2010-2013), "Chopped," "Food Network Star," and "Chef Wanted." Her most recent television appearance was on the cooking competition "House of Knives," which premiered in March 2025. Burrell was also an author, penning two cookbooks: the 2011 New York Times bestseller "Cook Like a Rock Star" and the 2013 follow-up "Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower." Additionally, she taught at the Institute of Culinary Education, sharing her knowledge with aspiring chefs.
Burrell’s influence extended beyond the kitchen and television. She was a dedicated advocate for charitable causes, serving on the Garden of Dreams Foundation Advisory Board and acting as a Celebrity Ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, raising awareness for juvenile diabetes. She was also involved with City Harvest, contributing to their Food Council to combat hunger in New York City.
Her husband, Stuart Claxton, whom she met in 2018 through the dating app Bumble, described their marriage as "wonderful" in a 2023 interview. "Anne and I hadn't lived together before we moved in and got married, so it's been a whole adventure, but very lovely at the same time," he said. Their relationship was marked by deep affection and mutual respect, a testament to the warmth Burrell brought to those around her.
The culinary community and fans have flooded social media with tributes and condolences. RuPaul’s Drag Race star Ginger Minj wrote, "I am so incredibly sad to hear of the passing of my friend @AnneBurrell today. I hope you are rocking out and cooking up a feast tonight!" Gigi Hadid, who appeared alongside Burrell on "Beat Bobby Flay" in 2023, expressed heartbreak: "I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of the Great Anne Burrell. As a longtime fan, getting to share this day with her was a dream come true. Rest in Peace Legend."
Robert Irvine, star of "Restaurant: Impossible," remembered her as a "radiant spirit" and a "fierce competitor," recalling their friendly rivalry on "Worst Cooks in America." He praised her dedication to uplifting others, saying, "Anne believed in nurturing culinary potential and celebrating small victories, whether in an amateur cook or on a charity fundraiser. That was Anne. Uncompromising in her standards, yet tender in her mentorship." Chef Ming Tsai called the news "so sad," while "The Challenge: All Stars" star Mark Long recalled her as a supportive coach. Chef Carla Hall described Burrell as an "incredible cook and teacher." Carson Kressley, a close friend, shared that he spoke with her just days before her death, cherishing memories of their time together.
Food Network issued a statement mourning the loss: "Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring. Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss."
Burrell’s final Instagram post, shared just four days before her passing, captured her playful spirit. She posted a selfie with Elizabeth Sweetheart, known as the "Green Lady of Brooklyn," writing, "I ran into @greenladyofbrooklyn in my neighborhood today!! I’m not going to lie- I have been keeping an eye out for her. I may or may not have followed her down the street for a minute. She is just lovely!!!"
Anne Burrell's legacy is one of passion, energy, and love for food that inspired millions. Her vibrant personality, dedication to teaching, and commitment to making cooking accessible will be remembered fondly by fans, colleagues, and aspiring chefs alike. Her warmth and mentorship touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the culinary world.
As the community mourns her passing, her influence will continue to resonate in kitchens and hearts around the globe. Anne Burrell was not just a chef or television personality; she was a beacon of joy, empowerment, and culinary excellence.
