The culinary world just lost a true original and now we’re learning what may have happened.

Celebrity chef and longtime Food Network personality Anne Burrell has died suddenly at the age of 55. A 911 call reported cardiac arrest, but an official cause of death is still under investigation.

According to authorities, Burrell was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn home early Tuesday morning. A 911 call indicated a possible cardiac arrest, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. An official cause of death has not yet been released, with the Office of Chief Medical Examiner continuing its investigation.
Source: Instagram/chefanneburrell

A Beloved Force in the Kitchen and Beyond

Burrell’s family released a statement remembering her not only as a star chef, but as someone whose warmth lit up every room.

“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend. Her smile lit up every room she entered,” her family said.
“Her light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world.”

A Food Network spokesperson also paid tribute to Burrell’s influence:

“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.”

From Cazenovia to Culinary Stardom

Born and raised in Cazenovia, New York, Burrell’s love for food started early, inspired by her mother’s home cooking and TV legend Julia Child. She earned a degree in English and Communications before following her heart to the Culinary Institute of America, graduating in 1996.
Source: Instagram/chefanneburrell
From there, she worked in some of NYC’s top kitchens, including Felidia and Savoy, honing her bold Mediterranean style. But it was her platinum spiky hair, big personality, and passion for teaching that made her a household name.

The Face of Worst Cooks in America

Burrell became best known for hosting Worst Cooks in America, where she mentored hopeless home cooks for nearly 28 seasons. She also appeared on Chopped, Chef Wanted, Food Network Star, and most recently, House of Knives, which premiered in March 2025.

She authored two cookbooks, Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen, both filled with her trademark confidence and kitchen wisdom.

Celebrity Tributes: “Rest in Peace, Legend”

Famous friends and fans are mourning her loss. Gigi Hadid, who cooked with Burrell on Beat Bobby Flay, shared a heartfelt tribute:

“Getting to share that day with her was a dream come true… She was awesome. Rest in Peace Legend.”

Source: Instagram/chefanneburrell
Chef Carla Hall called her an “incredible cook and teacher,” while Carson Kressley, who had just spoken with Burrell days ago, remembered her joyfully:

“So many memories, on screen and off. Good food, good friends and lots of love and laughter all around… I’ll see you again someday, dear friend.”

Gone Too Soon, But Never Forgotten

Anne Burrell is survived by her husband Stuart Claxton, whom she married in a fall-themed wedding in 2021, as well as her mother Marlene, her sister Jane, her brother Ben, and stepchildren Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas.

Her most recent Instagram post, shared just four days ago, is now filled with emotional comments from fans in disbelief:

“You were vivacious, hilarious, full of life… Rest with the angels and cook up a storm for us.”