Beloved celebrity chef Anne Burrell shared heartfelt reflections on finding love and settling down in her 50s during a recent podcast interview, just months before her unexpected passing at age 55.
Burrell, known for her vibrant personality and signature spiky blonde hair on shows like Worst Cooks in America, spoke candidly about her journey to marriage and embracing a new chapter in her life after years dedicated to her bustling career.
From ‘Rock Star Chef Life’ to Married Bliss
In a March 13th conversation with actress Tori Spelling on her misSPELLING podcast, Anne Burrell opened up about meeting her husband, Stuart Claxton. She revealed that after deciding to try dating apps in her late 40s, she connected with Claxton on Bumble.
When asked why she waited until her 50s to marry for the first time, Burrell explained her long-held belief: “From when I was a kid, I don’t know why, but I always was like, I am not getting married until I feel like I have something in life to share — until I have accomplished stuff.”
She fondly recalled her 20s and 30s spent “living my best life! I was like, living the rock star chef life. I was working a lot, and I had a great social life.” However, she admitted that as she got older, her perspective began to shift, feeling it was time for something different.
Marriage and Becoming a Stepmother
Anne Burrell and Stuart Claxton tied the knot on October 16, 2021. With the marriage, Anne also stepped into the role of stepmother to Stuart’s now 22-year-old son, Javier.
For Burrell, who had never had children of her own, this dynamic felt just right. “Kids were never on my radar, really,” she shared on the podcast, adding that she loved being an aunt to her nieces and nephews. She described being a stepmom as “the perfect amount of parenting for me.”
Friends Remember Her Excitement
Following her passing, many of Anne Burrell’s friends and fellow culinary stars shared touching tributes, often recalling her joy about her wedding day and new family life.
Chef Rachael Ray served as a bridesmaid at Burrell’s wedding, noting how honored she was to be asked. Ray highlighted Burrell’s inclusive nature, saying, “Despite being surrounded by incredible chefs, she never once made me feel self-conscious about not being one — she always treated me as one of the gang.”
Fellow Food Network personality Alex Guarnaschelli remembered how “so excited to get married and celebrate life” Anne was on her big day. Guarnaschelli praised Burrell’s unique zest for life, stating, “No one does it with the level of genuine, unbridled gusto she does. In fact, no one comes close.” She added that Burrell was eager to add “doting wife and stepmother” to her list of accomplishments.
A Life Remembered
Anne Burrell passed away on the morning of Tuesday, June 17th, at her home in Brooklyn, N.Y., at the age of 55. She is survived by her husband Stuart Claxton, stepson Javier, mother Marlene, and sister Jane, along with Jane’s children, and her brother Ben.
Her family released a poignant statement, saying, “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.”
Her final reflections on finding happiness and building a family after years in the spotlight offer a touching glimpse into the personal life of the beloved chef.
