Anne Burrell, the iconic Food Network chef with her signature platinum-blonde spikes and magnetic energy, passed away on the morning of June 17, 2025, at the age of 55. Known for her bold personality, culinary brilliance, and unmatched passion for teaching others, Anne’s death has left the food world stunned and heartbroken.
Anne was found unresponsive at her home in Brooklyn, New York, around 7:50 a.m. Emergency responders were called to the scene, but sadly, she was pronounced dead shortly after. While the exact cause of death is pending an official autopsy, initial reports indicate there were no signs of foul play. The sudden nature of her passing has made it even more difficult for fans, friends, and family to process the loss.
Before her untimely death, Anne had carved out a remarkable career in both professional kitchens and on television. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America and refining her skills in Italy, she returned to New York and worked in some of the city’s top restaurants, including Felidia and Savoy. She opened her own establishments later on, including Centro Vinoteca and Phil & Anne’s Good Time Lounge in Brooklyn.
But it was her television presence that made her a household name. She made her TV debut as a sous chef on “Iron Chef America,” and soon after, she became the host of Food Network’s “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef.” Anne became most beloved for her long-running role as co-host of “Worst Cooks in America,” where her fiery humor, tough love, and encouraging spirit helped kitchen disasters turn into confident home cooks. Her ability to balance skill with heart made her a fan favorite for over a decade.
Anne wasn’t just a chef; she was also an author and mentor. She wrote two bestselling cookbooks—“Cook Like a Rock Star” and “Own Your Kitchen”—that inspired countless readers to step into the kitchen with confidence. She also supported numerous charitable causes, especially those focused on food insecurity and children’s health.
In her personal life, Anne found love later than some but cherished it deeply. She married Stuart Claxton on October 16, 2021, in a dreamy autumn ceremony in her hometown of Cazenovia, New York. Stuart, a media executive, brought a sense of peace and companionship to Anne’s busy world. She frequently shared glimpses of their blended family life on social media, including moments with Stuart’s son, Javier. Anne often described their relationship as her “happily ever after” and once said marrying Stuart made her feel like the best version of herself.
Following the announcement of her death, tributes began pouring in from across the culinary world. Fellow chefs and friends like Carla Hall, Robert Irvine, and Sandra Lee all expressed deep sorrow, remembering Anne not just as a colleague, but as a radiant soul who brought laughter and inspiration wherever she went. Even Gigi Hadid, who once appeared with Anne on “Beat Bobby Flay,” shared a heartfelt message, calling it an honor to work alongside her and remembering her infectious joy.
Anne Burrell’s legacy is immense. She broke barriers in the culinary world, brought humor and realness to the kitchen, and uplifted everyone who crossed her path. Her sudden departure has created a void that will be hard to fill, but her influence lives on—in every home cook she empowered, every student she guided, and every meal made with heart.
She was more than a chef—she was a teacher, a friend, a wife, and a light in so many people’s lives. Anne Burrell will be remembered not just for the food she cooked, but for the joy she stirred in people’s hear
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