Beloved Food Network Personality Anne Burrell Passes Away at 55
Anne Burrell, the iconic chef and longtime host of Food Network’s Worst Cooks in America, has passed away at the age of 55. She died peacefully at her home in New York on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, according to statements from her family and the Food Network. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
A Culinary Star with a Joyful Legacy
Burrell was a household name in American culinary television, instantly recognizable by her signature spiky bleach-blond hair and vibrant personality. Over the years, she captured hearts through her warmth, humor, and unwavering passion for food.
Her family shared a heartfelt 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.”
The Food Network echoed these sentiments, adding:
“Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent — teaching, competing, and always sharing the joy of food. Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends, and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
From Restaurant Kitchens to TV Fame
Anne Burrell was born in Cazenovia, New York. After earning a degree from Canisius College in Buffalo, she pursued her culinary dreams at the Culinary Institute of America. She further honed her craft in Italy before returning to the U.S. in 1998 to work in professional kitchens.
Her television career began to rise in the early 2000s when she appeared as a sous chef on Iron Chef America. Her breakout moment came when she landed her own show, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, which ran for nine successful seasons.
Hosting Worst Cooks in America
Burrell became a staple of Food Network with her role on Worst Cooks in America, which she hosted from 2010 through 2024. The show challenged her to transform amateur cooks into competent chefs, all while maintaining humor and empathy.
- Hosted over 20 seasons
- Mentored hundreds of participants
- Known for blending tough love with encouragement
Though she did not appear in the most recent celebrity season, her influence on the show and its audience remains unforgettable.
Other Shows and Achievements
Throughout her career, Burrell appeared on numerous Food Network programs, including:
- Chopped
- Chef Wanted
- Food Network Star
- House of Knives (2025)
She also authored two bestselling cookbooks:
- Cook Like a Rock Star
- Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower
A Message to Aspiring Cooks
Even after participating in over 200 competitive cooking events, Burrell remained grounded in her mission: to make cooking fun and approachable.
In one of her final interviews with Tasting Table in April 2025, she said:
“I truly in my heart feel that your food knows how you’re feeling when you cook it and it reacts accordingly… Take the fear factor out of it and put the fun factor in.”
Survived by Loved Ones
Anne Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, and his son, Javier. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, flavor, and fearless cooking.
Final Thoughts
Anne Burrell was more than a chef. She was a mentor, an entertainer, and a source of inspiration for millions. Her contagious enthusiasm and joyful approach to cooking transformed kitchens across the world. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
💬 Share Your Memories
Fans and friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories, recipes, or tributes in Anne’s honor on social media using the hashtag #RememberingAnneBurrell.
#AnneBurrell #FoodNetworkStar #WorstCooksInAmerica #CelebrityChef #RememberingAnneBurrell