Chef and TV Host Passes Away at Home
Anne Burrell, the acclaimed Food Network personality, died on Tuesday, 17 June at her Brooklyn home. She was 55. Reps for Burrell confirmed the news in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. Burrell rose to fame for hosting Worst Cooks in America and Secrets of a Restaurant Chef.
Her family stated, “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.”
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Survived by Family and Husband Stuart Claxton
Burrell is survived by her husband Stuart Claxton and his son, Javier. The couple married on 16 October 2021. She is also survived by her mother, Marlene, her sister Jane, and Jane’s children Isabella, Amelia and Nicolas, as well as her brother Ben.
She often described her marriage as an adventure. Speaking at City Harvest’s 40th Anniversary Gala in 2023, Burrell said, “I have to say, I love being married. We’re together all the time because Stuart works from home. It’s the being together all the time, but it’s also the adventure together.”
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Anne Burrell and her husband, Stuart Claxton
Decades of Culinary Dedication and Television Work
Born on 21 September 1969 in Cazenovia, New York, Burrell developed a love for food early. Her mother’s cooking and Julia Child’s television shows inspired her to pursue the culinary arts.
She completed a degree in English and Communication at Canisius College in Buffalo. Burrell later enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America, graduating in 1996. She then moved to Italy, where she trained at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners and undertook apprenticeships.
Returning to New York in 1998, Burrell worked at Manhattan’s Felidia under Lidia Bastianich. She then became chef at Savoy in Soho, where she focused on Mediterranean cuisine. Burrell spent more than three years teaching at the Institute of Culinary Education before joining television.
A Long Career With Food Network
Food Network first introduced Burrell as sous chef on Iron Chef America. Her own show, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, premiered in 2008 and ran for nine seasons. She gained widespread popularity hosting Worst Cooks in America, mentoring novice cooks with enthusiasm and humour.
She also appeared on Chef Wanted, Chopped, Food Network Star, Chopped All-Stars, Beat Bobby Flay, and House of Knives, which premiered in March 2025.
Food Network released a statement saying, “Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent — teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring. Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
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Successful Author and Cookbook Writer
Burrell authored two cookbooks. Her first, Cook Like a Rock Star, was released in 2011 and became a New York Times bestseller. Her second, Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower, shared her cooking philosophy with home chefs across the country.
Committed to Charity and Community Involvement
Beyond the kitchen, Burrell served on the advisory board of the Garden of Dreams Foundation. She supported the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation as a celebrity ambassador. She also participated in City Harvest’s Food Council, a program focused on food rescue in New York City.
Burrell often said, “I feel so lucky to be able to share my true passion in life with others.” She maintained strong ties to community initiatives and regularly contributed to charity events and public causes.
Tributes and Legacy
Colleagues, viewers and fans paid tribute to her contributions to the food world. Her spiky platinum hair, distinctive laugh and strong presence became part of her public image. Food Network described her as a “beloved chef” and a “staple” of its programming.
The network, her family and her many supporters continue to celebrate her achievements. Her influence on television cooking shows, restaurant kitchens and everyday home chefs remains evident.
Burrell’s work shaped food entertainment for over two decades. Her legacy will continue through her shows, books and charitable efforts.
