Beloved TV Chef Anne Burrell Dies at 55: Fans are Shocked by Her Sudden Passing
Celebrity chef Anne Burrell, best known for hosting Worst Cooks in America, died on June 17, 2025, at her home in Brooklyn, New York. She was 55. People magazine confirmed the news. The cause of her death has not yet been announced. Fans and foodies praised Anne not only for her cooking skills, but also for her big personality, loud laugh and passion for food.
“Anne was a loving wife, sister, daughter, stepmother and friend. Her smile lit up every room. Anne’s warmth touched millions of lives. Even though she is gone, her love and energy will always be with us.”
The Food Network, where Anne hosted several shows, also shared their grief. “We are deeply saddened to share the news of Anne Burrell’s passing. She was an incredible chef and person – teaching, competing and showing how food can bring joy. We send our love to her family, friends and fans during this difficult time.”
Chef Robert Irwin, who worked with Anne on Worst Cooks in America, wrote a tribute on Instagram. “I am so shocked and heartbroken to hear about Anne. She was so energetic and lit up every room. We had a great competition on the show. We made a bet once – if she won, I would bleach my hair. I lost, but I never minded losing to her. She had an invincible spirit.”
Top Chef winner Chef Stephanie Izzard also shared, “Anne had such a big smile and joyful energy. She inspired so many people. My heart goes out to her family.”
Fans and many chefs posted tributes online.
Anne’s Culinary Journey
Anne Burrell was born on September 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, New York. Her love of cooking was born from her mother’s home-cooked meals and watching Julia Child on TV. She earned a degree in English and communications from Canisius University but later followed her heart into cooking. In 1996, she graduated from the Culinary Institute of America.
Anne loved Italian food. She studied at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners to learn more about Italian cooking.
When she returned to New York, she worked with Lydia Bastianich at renowned kitchens such as Felidia and Savoy in SoHo.
Her TV career began on Iron Chef America and grew from there. She starred in shows such as Chopped, Chef Wanted, and most notably, Worst Chef in America. In March 2025, she also appeared on House of Knives.
A Star On And Off Screen
Anne wrote two cookbooks – Cook Like a Rock Star (2011) and In Your Kitchen (2013). Both books aimed to help home cooks feel confident and excited in the kitchen.
Anne wasn’t just a TV personality – she also gave back. She supported health causes such as food pantries, juvenile diabetes, and participated in community events.
Anne loved simple, delicious food. She once said that her favorite food was bacon and her favorite dish was her mom’s tuna sandwich. “Cooking should be fun,” she often said. “It’s all about caring and sharing.”
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Final Days And Social Media Posts
Anne remained active on social media. Five days before her death, on June 12, she posted a cheerful selfie with Brooklyn’s Green Lady. She was wearing a floral top, sunglasses, and her blonde hair. She looked happy and energetic. That same day, she also shared a photo with chefs Elizabeth Falconer and Franklin Baker at Soho House in New York.
In recent months, fans have noticed that Anne has been missing from the latest season of America’s Worst Cooks. Chefs Jeff Mauro and Antonia Lofaso have taken her place. When asked by fans, Anne has responded to a few comments but hasn’t given a definitive answer. “Honestly, I don’t know,” she once wrote. In another comment, she said, “I miss you!” and told a fan, “I’ll do my best,” when asked to return for the next season.
Legacy And Loved Ones
Anne lived life with joy and heart. She joined an improv comedy show at Second City earlier this month and invited fans to watch.
Anne is survived by her husband Stuart Claxton (they married in 2021), her stepson Javier, her mother Marlene, and her siblings Jane and Ben.
Her family shared, “Anne’s light touched people around the world. Her love and energy will always be with us.”
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