The culinary world is mourning the loss of Anne Burrell, the vibrant and beloved Food Network star best known as the co-host of the hit competition series “Worst Cooks in America.” Burrell passed away on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at her home in Brooklyn. She was 55 years old.
News of her death was confirmed by her family and the Food Network, leading to an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow chefs.
A Personality That Broke the Mold
For many viewers, Anne Burrell was more than just a chef on television; she embodied a down-to-earth authenticity combined with undeniable charisma. With her signature spiky platinum-blonde hair and a no-nonsense, my-way-or-the-highway attitude delivered with warmth, she connected with audiences who saw a reflection of themselves in her relatable, energetic presence. This dynamic personality earned her a special place in the hearts of fans, many of whom felt she was like a fun, albeit firm, ‘aunt’ figure guiding them in the kitchen.
Burrell rose to prominence during a significant era of transformation for the Food Network, as the channel evolved from its focus on home-cooking staples to embrace restaurant-trained chefs and high-stakes competition. Her populist appeal made her a standout star, comfortable navigating both instructional shows and the network’s increasingly popular competitive formats.
As fellow chef Maneet Chauhan observed, Anne Burrell was someone who “broke the mold of what chefs should say, shouldn’t say, should do, shouldn’t do,” truly living life on her own terms.
From Restaurant Kitchens to Television Stardom
Born in Cazenovia, New York, Anne Burrell honed her considerable culinary skills at prestigious institutions, including the Culinary Institute of America and the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. Her journey to television fame began in 2005 when she served as sous chef to Mario Batali on “Iron Chef America.”
Over two decades, Burrell became a familiar and constant presence on the Food Network. While she hosted popular shows like “Secrets of A Restaurant Chef” (2008-2012) and “Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell” (2012-2013), she became most widely recognized and adored for her role as a tough-but-fair coach on “Worst Cooks in America.” Guiding kitchen novices through culinary challenges with her signature blend of humor and direct instruction, she helped make the show a fan favorite.
Beyond her primary hosting duties, Burrell was a frequent guest or judge on numerous other hit Food Network programs, including “Chopped,” “Food Network Star,” and “Beat Bobby Flay.” Most recently, she appeared as a guest judge on the new series “House of Knives” in March 2025.
Burrell’s career was not limited to the small screen. She held the position of executive chef at Centro Vinoteca in New York’s West Village starting in 2007 and briefly operated her own restaurant, Phil & Anne’s Good Time Lounge, which opened in 2017. She also authored two cookbooks, “Cook Like A Rockstar” and “Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower,” sharing her culinary philosophy and recipes with home cooks. A dedicated philanthropist, she was also involved with charitable organizations such as the City Harvest Food Council.
Details of Her Passing
Anne Burrell passed away suddenly at her home in Brooklyn at the age of 55. While an official cause of death has not been formally announced by the medical examiner, a law enforcement source reportedly informed TMZ that emergency services were alerted by a 911 caller reporting cardiac arrest, and Burrell was found unresponsive at her residence.
Her death marks a poignant moment for the Food Network and its dedicated fanbase, representing the first loss among the core family of personalities who have shaped the network’s identity over the years.
A Legacy of Warmth and Spirit
Tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and fans across the culinary community, remembering Burrell’s impact both on and off screen. The Food Network honored her as a “remarkable person and culinary talent,” celebrating her passion for teaching, competing, and sharing the simple joy food brings. Her family’s statement echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that her “warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”
Anne Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, and her loving family. She leaves behind a legacy defined by her authentic personality, culinary skill, and the unique way she connected with millions of viewers, cementing her status as a truly beloved figure in the world of food television.
