Cape Town – Anne Burrell, the larger-than-life celebrity chef and longtime Food Network personality, died suddenly on June 17 at the age of 55.
According to the New York Police Department, Burrell was found unresponsive by her husband, Stuart Claxton, in the shower of their Brooklyn home just before 8 a.m., and was pronounced dead at the scene.
As reported by the New York Post, Claxton had last seen her around 1 a.m., and her body was already cold when discovered. Authorities believe cardiac arrest is the likely cause, though this remains unconfirmed pending an official autopsy by the New York City medical examiner.
Just hours before her death, Burrell had performed at an improv comedy show at The Second City in Brooklyn.
She was described as being in “great spirits” and her usual upbeat self during the appearance, TMZ reported.
The New York City Fire Department confirmed they received a 911 call indicating a suspected cardiac arrest around 7:50 a.m, the report said.
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… pic.twitter.com/KABKH2SvkP
— Food Network (@FoodNetwork) June 17, 2025
Her passing has triggered a flood of tributes from fans and fellow chefs.
According to Page Six, close friend Rachael Ray, who was a bridesmaid at Burrell’s wedding in 2021, said she was “shaken” and “in utter disbelief”, describing Burrell as “a bright light” whose death is “an incredible loss.”
Chef Tyler Florence, in a statement shared with The New York Post, remembered her as “a legendary chef and an even better friend.” Melba Wilson, also speaking to Page Six, said Burrell had appeared “healthy, vibrant, and full of life.”
Burrell, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, built her career with rigorous training in Italian kitchens before bursting onto American TV screens. As reported by Entertainment Weekly, she first gained prominence as a sous-chef on Iron Chef America before becoming host of Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and co-host of Worst Cooks in America, where she led the Blue Team for a remarkable 27 seasons.
RIP Anne Burrell pic.twitter.com/7zY3smEY3f
— 🌸 Digi Gal (@DigitalGal_X) June 17, 2025
Burrell authored bestselling cookbooks, taught at the Institute of Culinary Education, and co-owned Phil & Anne’s Good Time Lounge in Brooklyn. According to CBS News, she had been in talks about returning to television and had recently considered participating in Meghan Markle’s upcoming Netflix cooking series.
Her final Instagram post, shared on June 12, featured a smiling selfie with Brooklyn street icon Elizabeth “The Green Lady” Sweetheart. Fans quickly turned to the comments to express their shock and sorrow, many referring to the photo as “heartbreaking in hindsight.”
I am so incredibly sad to hear of the passing of my friend @AnneBurrell today! I hope you are rocking out and cooking up a feast tonight! pic.twitter.com/uK4B5gVHCf
— Ginger Minj (@TheGingerMinj) June 17, 2025
Her family released a statement, as published by multiple outlets including NBC News, calling her “a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother and friend,” and adding, “Her smile lit up every room … Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit and boundless love remain eternal.”
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
