The Food Network family and millions of fans are grieving the sudden loss of one of its most beloved stars. Anne Burrell, a culinary icon known for her fierce personality, signature spiky blonde hair, and infectious passion for teaching, passed away on June 17, 2025, at the age of 55.
Anne was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn home around 8 a.m., according to police. While the cause of death is still under investigation, there’s no indication of foul play. Her passing has left a huge void in the hearts of fellow chefs, devoted viewers, and aspiring home cooks everywhere.
Iconic Chef Passes Away at 55
| What Happened | Stat/Fact |
|---|---|
| Date of Death | June 17, 2025 |
| Age at Passing | 55 |
| TV Shows Hosted | 27 seasons of Worst Cooks, plus Secrets of a Restaurant Chef |
A Vibrant Flame in the Kitchen
Anne Burrell’s path to TV stardom began in a small town—Cazenovia, New York. She earned her degree in English and Communications before following her passion for food to the Culinary Institute of America, graduating in 1996. She then trained in Italy and built her career in the intense kitchens of New York City.
I remember watching her on Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and being floored by how she broke down complex techniques into something I could actually pull off. She wasn’t just teaching; she was cheering you on from the screen.
Her big break came in 2005, when she joined Iron Chef America as a sous-chef. But it was Worst Cooks in America where she truly hit her stride—hosting 27 seasons and becoming a household name.
She also appeared in numerous other Food Network staples like Chopped, Beat Bobby Flay, and most recently House of Knives in 2025.
Heartfelt Tributes from Fans and Friends
Social media has lit up with tributes from those who knew Anne personally and those who felt like they did. Her vibrant energy and fierce compassion were unforgettable.
“Anne was a legendary chef and an even better friend… She brought her generous heart, humor and feisty spirit to everything she did.” – Tyler Florence, fellow Food Network star
“I learned so much from you on Worst Cooks. I know you’ll be cooking up a storm in heaven.” – Wells Adams, Worst Cooks contestant
From Top Chef veterans like Carla Hall to celebrities like Carson Kressley and Gigi Hadid, the message has been clear: Anne Burrell wasn’t just a great chef. She was a great human.
A Chef, Author, Mentor, and Friend
Anne’s legacy stretches far beyond the screen. She authored two best-selling cookbooks—Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen—that helped home chefs everywhere boost their kitchen confidence.
She also helmed restaurants like Centro Vinoteca and Phil & Anne’s Good Time Lounge, which became local favorites for their inventive yet approachable cuisine.
And she never stopped advocating for food causes close to her heart. In lieu of flowers, her family has requested donations to City Harvest, a nonprofit fighting food insecurity, and Breakthrough T1D, formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Her Family and Final Years
Anne married Stuart Claxton in a beautiful ceremony on October 16, 2021, becoming a loving stepmom to his son, Javier. She’s survived by Stuart, Javier, her mother Marlene, and siblings Jane and Ben.
“Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions… her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal,” her family said in a statement. Her final TV appearance aired just months ago, in the latest season of Worst Cooks in America, where she once again brought out the best in a group of nervous kitchen newbies.
A Legacy That Sticks
Anne wasn’t perfect—she was real. She made mistakes on camera and laughed through them. She didn’t just show you how to cook; she showed you how to believe in yourself, spatula in hand. That’s what made her special.
And in an age of curated perfection, Anne’s down-to-earth, let’s-just-go-for-it attitude felt like a warm hug to every viewer. Her energy made you believe that even a soggy risotto could be salvaged—and hey, maybe you’d learn something along the way.
What We Know Now
Anne Burrell’s death came suddenly and shocked the culinary world. Here’s a quick recap of the known facts:
- Date and Place: June 17, 2025, at her home in Brooklyn, NY
- Cause of Death: Autopsy pending
- Survived by: Husband, stepson, mother, siblings, nieces, and nephews
- Last TV Appearance: Worst Cooks in America, Season 27 (2024)
- Donations Requested: City Harvest, Breakthrough T1D
The Food Network released a statement saying, “Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent—teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food… Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
FAQs
What was Anne Burrell’s cause of death?
An official cause has not yet been announced. An autopsy is pending.
Where was Anne Burrell when she died?
She was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn home around 8 a.m. on June 17, 2025.
How can fans honor her memory?
The family encourages donations to City Harvest or Breakthrough T1D, both causes Anne supported.
