Anne Burrell, the longtime Food Network star and host of the popular Worst Cooks in America, passed away Tuesday at her home in Brooklyn.
The cause of her death has not yet been released. According to reports, the celebrity chef was found unresponsive at her Brooklyn, New York home, and EMS was called to assist.
The medical examiner will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of death, according to reports.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend—her smile lit up every room she entered,” her family said in a 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.”
A true New Yorker, Burrell was a longtime fan of the New York Rangers and was often seen in attendance at Madison Square Garden. Her social media was filled with images of her taking selfies with several Rangers whenever she attended games. She also volunteered her time serving food at MSG’s Garden of Dreams, an initiative that works to bring life-changing opportunities to young people in need. Hockeygoers recalled her as engaging and always taking the time to chat with fans.
Her upbeat personality, and kitchen skills made her on of Food Network’s most popular cooks. Burrell was perhaps best known as the longtime host of Worst Cooks in America, where her cooking skills and ability to teach helped transform the most awful cooks into capable culinary artists.
Very sad to hear about the passing of Chef Anne Burrell. Passionate hockey fan, unconditionally loved her Rangers. She was wonderful when she came on as a guest on our MSG Hockey Show. Only 55. RIP pic.twitter.com/HvVeGAdohd
— ᴀʀᴅᴀ Öᴄᴀʟ (@Arda) June 17, 2025
Anne Burrell Had A Gift for Cooking
Born on Sept. 21, 1969, in upstate New York, Burrell’s passion for cooking began in her mother’s kitchen and grew while watching cooking legend Julia Child on television. She studied English and Communication at Canisius College in Buffalo before pursuing a career in the food business at the Culinary Institute of America, graduating in 1996.
She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, and his son, Javier, as well as her mother, Marlene; sister, Jane; children Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas; and her brother, Ben.