Chef Anne Burrell Dies at 55
Food Network Star Remembered for Her Joy, Passion, and Impact
Beloved celebrity chef Anne Burrell, known for her spiky blond hair and lively spirit on the Food Network, passed away at age 55. She was found unconscious at her Brooklyn home on June 17, 2025, and was pronounced dead at the scene despite paramedics’ efforts. An autopsy will determine the cause of death.
Burrell is survived by her husband Stuart Claxton, his son Javier, and several close family members. In a statement, her family shared, “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered.”
Just five days before her death, Burrell posted on Instagram, expressing excitement about meeting a local figure: “I may or may not have followed her down the street for a minute. She is just lovely!!! #ilovewhatido #luckygirl”
Burrell believed cooking should be joyful and approachable. In an April interview, she said, “I truly in my heart feel that your food knows how you’re feeling when you cook it and it reacts accordingly.” She encouraged beginners to find recipes they’re comfortable with and emphasized, “Don’t just try to wing it… read it from beginning to end before you start cooking.”
She also advocated for kitchen organization and tasting throughout the cooking process. Her supportive style on shows like Worst Cooks in America helped many gain confidence. Burrell also hosted Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, Chef Wanted, and appeared on Iron Chef America.
