- Thursday, July 17, 2025
Anne Burrell, famed Food Network personality and chef behind Worst Cooks in America and Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, died on June 17 at age 55. She was known for her fiery spirit, mentorship, and culinary brilliance.
By: Vibhuti Pathak
Anne Burrell, the celebrated chef and longtime Food Network personality known for her vibrant presence and culinary expertise, passed away on Tuesday (17), at her home in Brooklyn, New York. She was 55 years old.
“Anne’s Light Radiated Far Beyond Those She Knew”
Burrell’s family released a heartfelt statement following her passing, “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”.
The New York Police Department confirmed that officers responded to her home around 7:50 a.m., where Burrell was found “unconscious and unresponsive.” She was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of death has not been disclosed, and an investigation is ongoing.
A Culinary Star and Mentor
Anne Burrell’s television career began in 2005 as a sous chef on Iron Chef America. She soon became a household name with her own show, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, which ran for nine seasons from 2008 to 2012. Burrell was best known as the host of Worst Cooks in America, where her infectious enthusiasm and mentorship helped amateur cooks transform in the kitchen.
She also appeared in and hosted several other Food Network programs, including Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell, Chopped, Food Network Star, and most recently, House of Knives. Her signature spiky platinum hair and larger-than-life personality made her a standout figure in the culinary world.
The Food Network paid tribute, stating, “Anne was an extraordinary individual and culinary talent — she taught, competed, and always shared 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”.
Tributes from the Culinary Community
Tributes poured in from colleagues and fans alike. Chef Carla Hall remembered her as “fierce, funny, and an incredibly talented cook and teacher—someone who brought so much fire and joy to everything she did.” Chef Robert Irvine, who worked with Burrell on Worst Cooks in America, wrote:
“Anne wasn’t just a fiery chef. She was a radiant spirit who lit up every room she entered… An epic wager that epitomized her unbeatable spirit. It was a wager I ultimately lost, but I couldn’t imagine losing to a more fierce competitor.”
Gigi Hadid, who appeared with Burrell on Beat Bobby Flay, said, “I am heartbroken over the loss of this amazing chef… She was incredible. Rest in peace, legend”.
A Lasting Legacy
Burrell’s final Instagram post, shared on June 12, reflected her love for her Brooklyn neighborhood and her zest for life. She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, whom she married in 2021, her stepson Javier, her mother Marlene, her sister Jane, her children Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas, and her brother Ben.
Anne Burrell leaves behind a legacy of culinary excellence, mentorship, and joy. Her influence will continue to inspire chefs and home cooks for generations to come.
