The Sudden Passing of Anne Burrell

The culinary world was shocked by the sudden death of Food Network star Anne Burrell on June 17, 2025, at her home in Brooklyn, New York. The beloved chef, known for her spiky blonde hair and energetic personality on shows like “Worst Cooks in America,” was just 55 years old at the time of her passing.

Circumstances of Her Death

According to reports from TMZ, emergency medical services were called to Burrell’s Brooklyn home on the morning of June 17 after she was found unresponsive. Despite efforts by paramedics to revive her, Burrell was declared dead at the scene.

An autopsy will be performed by the medical examiner to determine the exact cause of death, which has not been publicly disclosed as of this writing. Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Food Network studio kitchen

Her Final Days

Burrell remained active in her final days, sharing what would be her last Instagram post on June 12, just five days before her passing. The post featured a photo with Elizabeth Eaton Rosenthal, known as the “Green Lady of Brooklyn,” with whom Burrell had a chance encounter in her neighborhood.

Remarkably, Burrell performed in an improv show on June 16, the night before her death, demonstrating her continued passion for creativity and performance

Tributes Pour In

The Food Network released a statement honoring Burrell: “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 described 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”.

Anne Burrell’s Culinary Legacy

Born on September 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, New York, Burrell graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1996 after initially earning an English degree from Canisius College. She further honed her skills at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners in Asti, Italy.

Television Career

Burrell’s television career began in 2005 as Mario Batali’s sous chef on “Iron Chef America.” She went on to host several successful Food Network shows including:

  • “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef” (2008-2017)
  • “Worst Cooks in America” (2010-2024)
  • “Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell” (2012-2013)
  • “House of Knives” (2025)

She also appeared as a contestant on “The Next Iron Chef” and “Chopped All-Stars,” winning the latter in 2015 and donating her $75,000 prize to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Restaurants and Cookbooks

Beyond television, Burrell worked at prestigious New York restaurants including Felidia (owned by Lidia Bastianich), Savoy, and Centro Vinoteca. In 2017, she opened her own Brooklyn restaurant, Phil & Anne’s Good Time Lounge, though it closed the following year.

She authored two cookbooks: “Cook Like a Rock Star” (a New York Times bestseller) and “Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower”.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anne Burrell’s Death

1. How old was Anne Burrell when she died?

Anne Burrell was 55 years old at the time of her death on June 17, 2025. She was born on September 21, 1969.

2. What was Anne Burrell’s cause of death?

As of June 18, 2025, the exact cause of Anne Burrell’s death has not been publicly disclosed. An autopsy will be performed by the medical examiner to determine the cause.

3. Where did Anne Burrell die?

Anne Burrell passed away at her home in Brooklyn, New York. Emergency services were called to her residence on the morning of June 17 after she was found unresponsive.

4. Was Anne Burrell married at the time of her death?

Yes, Anne Burrell was married to Stuart Claxton at the time of her death. The couple wed on October 16, 2021, after meeting on the dating app Bumble. Burrell became a stepmother to Claxton’s son, Javiek.

5. What was Anne Burrell’s net worth?

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Anne Burrell had an estimated net worth of $4 million at the time of her death, accumulated through her television career, cookbooks, and restaurant ventures.

6. What was Anne Burrell’s last Instagram post?

Burrell’s final Instagram post on June 12 showed her with Elizabeth Eaton Rosenthal, known as the “Green Lady of Brooklyn.” The caption expressed her delight at meeting Rosenthal in her neighborhood.

7. What shows was Anne Burrell known for?

Burrell was best known as co-host of “Worst Cooks in America” (2010-2024) and host of “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef” (2008-2017). She also appeared on “Iron Chef America,” “Chopped,” “The Next Iron Chef,” and most recently “House of Knives”.

8. Did Anne Burrell have any children?

Anne Burrell did not have biological children but was a stepmother to her husband Stuart Claxton’s son, Javier.

9. What were Anne Burrell’s last public appearances?

In her final days, Burrell performed in an improv show on June 16 and posted on Instagram on June 12 about meeting the “Green Lady of Brooklyn”.

10. How is the culinary community reacting to her death?

The Food Network and culinary community have expressed deep sorrow, praising Burrell’s talent, passion for teaching, and ability to connect with audiences. Many fellow chefs and fans have shared tributes on social media.