The culinary world is mourning the loss of Anne Burrell, the vibrant Food Network personality known for her spiky blonde hair and infectious energy, who passed away at her Brooklyn home on June 17, 2025, at the age of 55.

Anne Burrell’s Cause of Death

As of June 18, 2025, the exact cause of Anne Burrell’s death has not been publicly disclosed by her family or representatives. Emergency medical services were called to her Brooklyn home after she was found unresponsive, according to reports. Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Burrell’s sudden passing has shocked fans and colleagues alike, as she had been actively working until recently. Just one day before her death, she performed in an improv show in New York City, showcasing her playful personality beyond the kitchen.

A Look at Anne Burrell’s Illustrious Career

Anne Burrell first gained national attention as a sous chef to Mario Batali on “Iron Chef America” in 2005, where her culinary expertise and vibrant personality quickly made her a fan favorite.

Her breakout came with “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,” which premiered on the Food Network in 2008 and ran for nine seasons, earning an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Culinary Program in 2011. However, she was best known as the longtime host of “Worst Cooks in America,” a show she had been involved with since its inception in 2010.

Beyond television, Burrell was an accomplished chef who trained at the Culinary Institute of America and the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. She worked at acclaimed New York restaurants including Felidia Ristorante in Manhattan and Savoy Restaurant in Soho before transitioning to television.

Personal Life and Legacy

Anne Burrell married Stuart Claxton in October 2021, with fellow celebrity chef Rachael Ray serving as a bridesmaid at their wedding. She is survived by Claxton and his son, Javier, from a previous marriage, as well as her mother Marlene, sister Jane, and brother Ben.

Burrell was passionate about philanthropy, serving on the Garden of Dreams Foundation Advisory Board and acting as a celebrity ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. She was also an advocate for City Harvest, where she served on their Food Council.

In her final months, Burrell had been partnering with CareRite Centers to bring a Signature Culinary Excellence program to rehabilitation and nursing facilities, aiming to redefine dining experiences for patients.

Tributes Pour In

Food Network released a statement saying: “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”.

Her family remembered her as “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”.

Fans have flooded social media with memories of how Burrell inspired them to cook with confidence and joy, embodying her philosophy that cooking should be fun rather than intimidating.