The culinary world is mourning the sudden loss of beloved Food Network personality Anne Burrell, who tragically passed away at the age of 55 on the morning of June 17 at her home in Brooklyn, New York.
Her family shared a heartfelt statement confirming her death, saying:
“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.”
Found Unresponsive at Home
According to NYPD reports, emergency services responded to a call regarding an “unconscious and unresponsive” woman at 7:50 a.m. The woman was later pronounced dead at the scene. Although police did not name her directly, People confirmed the address matches Burrell’s Brooklyn residence.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is conducting an autopsy to determine her cause of death, which remains unknown at this time.
A Life Still Lived to the Fullest
In a bittersweet twist, just a day before her passing, Anne had performed in her first-ever improv show—a dream she had eagerly shared with her 688,000 Instagram followers.
“Sooooooo… as I have mentioned I have been taking Improv classes @thesecondcitytc and having an ABSOLUTE blast!!!”
she wrote on June 16:
“We are a small but SUPER fun bunch!! #ilovewhatido #luckygirl”
Her costar Jane Margolis confirmed Anne had performed at the show and spent the evening with friends.
“Spent last night enjoying Anne’s cooking and doing an improv show together. Still in shock, but so glad I got to know you,” Jane wrote in tribute.
Anne’s final Instagram post, uploaded just five days before her passing, showed her smiling joyfully after spotting the iconic Green Lady of Brooklyn—a local character she’d long admired. It reflected Anne’s signature zest for life and ability to find joy in small, quirky moments.
A Food Network Powerhouse
Anne Burrell rose to fame through her vibrant personality, wild blonde hair, and unforgettable presence on Food Network, especially as the fiery host of Worst Cooks in America—a hit series that ran for nearly 30 seasons.
Her other television credits include:
- Secrets of a Restaurant Chef
- Chef Wanted
- Chopped
- Iron Chef America
- Food Network Star
She authored two cookbooks and was deeply involved in philanthropic efforts, supporting organizations like City Harvest and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Love and Legacy
Anne married Stuart Claxton in October 2021 after meeting on Bumble in 2018. She is survived by Stuart, his son Javier, her mother Marlene, sister Jane, brother Ben, and their children.
Though her physical presence is gone, Anne Burrell’s passion for cooking, laughter, and life will continue to inspire those who loved her—and millions more who welcomed her into their homes through their TV screens.