Anne Burrell, Food Network Star Dies at 55

The culinary community is mourning the unexpected passing of Anne Burrell, the beloved Food Network chef and television personality, who died on June 17, 2025, at the age of 55. Known for her spiky platinum hair, infectious energy, and no-nonsense teaching style, Burrell was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn home and pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. An autopsy is currently underway to determine the official cause of death.

A Career Built on Passion and Personality

Burrell rose to fame through her work on Food Network staples such as Worst Cooks in America, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, Iron Chef America, and Chopped. Her breakout role came as a sous chef for Mario Batali on Iron Chef America, but it was her own shows—particularly Worst Cooks in America—that cemented her as a household name. With her signature wit and tough-love coaching, she helped transform kitchen novices into confident home cooks over the course of 28 seasons.

Beyond television, Burrell authored two bestselling cookbooks: Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen, both of which reflected her empowering approach to food and her belief that anyone could become a great cook with the right guidance.

A Life Rooted in Culinary Excellence

Born in Cazenovia, New York, Burrell studied at the Culinary Institute of America and later honed her skills in Italy at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. She brought that classical training back to New York City, working in acclaimed restaurants like Felidia and Savoy before transitioning to television. Her culinary style—bold, approachable, and deeply rooted in Italian tradition—resonated with viewers and aspiring chefs alike.

Tributes from Colleagues and Fans

Following the news of her passing, tributes poured in from across the food world. The Food Network released a statement calling her “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”. Chef Tyler Florence, her longtime co-host on Worst Cooks in America, remembered her as “a close friend and a gifted teacher” who brought “generous heart, humor, and feisty spirit” to everything she did.

Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, whom she married in 2021, her stepson Javier, her mother Marlene, and her siblings Jane and Ben. Her family released a heartfelt statement: “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”.