Celebrity chef and Food Network personality Anne Burrell has tragically died suddenly at just 55 years old.
Burrell was found dead at her home in Brooklyn, New York, on Tuesday morning.
Her unexpected death was confirmed in a statement released by the Food Network, which read:
“We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef Anne Burrell passed away this morning.
“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.”
However, the cause of death has not been disclosed.
All details surrounding the circumstances of Burrell’s sudden passing have been withheld from the public.
Burrell became a household name through her appearances on the Food Network, beginning in 2005 on Iron Chef America as a sous chef for Mario Batali.
She later gained wide recognition as host of Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and Worst Cooks in America, where her bold style and personality earned her a devoted following.
She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, his son, Javier, and her immediate family, including her mother, brother, and sister, according to Newsweek.
In a statement, Burrell’s family said:
“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.”
Tributes from colleagues and fans began to appear online shortly after news of her death broke.
Chef Robert Irvine, her co-host on Worst Cooks in America, shared a remembrance on social media:
“Anne wasn’t just a fiery chef. She was a radiant spirit who lit up every room she entered.
“From the very beginning on Worst Cooks in America, our friendly rivalry was fueled by mutual respect: I’d risk bleaching my hair; she’d risk losing hers.
“An epic wager that epitomized her unbeatable spirit.
“It was a wager I ultimately lost, but I couldn’t imagine losing to a more fierce competitor.”
Comedian Loni Love also offered her condolences, writing:
“Anne Burrell’s passing has left me in shock and sorrow.
“She was a gifted chef and an extraordinary person.
“Chef Anne was the same on and off camera.
“She would just check on me out the blue.
“I will miss her tremendously.
“My condolences to her husband, family, & fans. Rest Chef.”
Burrell’s culinary influence and television legacy remain widely recognized, particularly for her role in making professional cooking accessible and entertaining to home audiences.
