Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 25, 2025 · Entertainment

Anne Burrell's Final Heartfelt Gesture Before Her Shocking Passing

Anne Burrell made a poignant gesture to her Worst Cooks in America co-star before her shock death aged 55 - pictured with  Gabe Bertaccini

The Tragic Demise of Anne Burrell: A Shining Star Falls

In a shocking turn of events, beloved Food Network star Anne Burrell has left the culinary world reeling with her sudden passing at just 55 years young. The news sent shockwaves through the industry, leaving fans and colleagues alike in stunned silence.

Burrell, known for her infectious enthusiasm and signature spiky platinum hair, had been a fixture on TV screens for decades, charming audiences with her wit and expertise on shows like "Worst Cooks in America" and "Secrets of a Restaurant Chef." Her untimely death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends, and fans who are still struggling to come to terms with the loss.

Last month Burrell, who hosted Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and co-hosted Worst Cooks, was found dead inside her Brooklyn apartment and 'surrounded by pills'. Her cause of death was confirmed as suicide this week

But behind the scenes, Burrell was more than just a talented chef – she was a kind soul with a generous heart. Co-host Gabe Bertaccini revealed that in her final days on set, Burrell made a poignant gesture that will be etched in his memory forever. As filming wrapped on their latest season of "Worst Cooks," Burrell handed Bertaccini a handmade card adorned with a tiny crocheted heart – a thoughtful touch that showcased her creative side.

"That's exactly who Anne was," Bertaccini gushed to TV Insider. "There was no ego or competition. She took the time to do something special for me, and it's a memory I'll cherish forever."

Bertaccini's account paints a picture of a warm and caring individual who was deeply committed to her craft and those around her. And yet, beneath the surface, Burrell struggled with demons that would ultimately prove too great to overcome.

He told TV Insider of his final meet with Burrell: 'It was the finale. Everyone is tired. Weeks and weeks have gone by. We are celebrating the end of the shoot, and I get really sick. Anne hands me this card. It said, ¿I hope you feel better.¿

According to sources close to the investigation, Burrell took her own life in a tragic turn of events that has left many stunned. Her body was discovered surrounded by pills, and an autopsy later confirmed that she had died from acute intoxication due to a combination of substances.

In the hours leading up to her death, Burrell had been performing at a comedy club in Brooklyn – a testament to her boundless energy and enthusiasm for life. Just days earlier, she had spoken on a podcast about taking acting classes and exploring new horizons, showing that even in her darkest moments, she remained open to growth and self-improvement.

Burrell's family has released a statement paying tribute to the "beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend" who lit up every room she entered. And as fans continue to mourn her passing, many are praising Burrell for her incredible talent, generosity of spirit, and enduring legacy in the culinary world.

On Thursday, People confirmed that the celebrity chef tragically died by suicide

From supermodel Gigi Hadid to TV personality Carson Kressley, the tributes have poured in from all corners of the industry. "I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of the Great Anne Burrell," Hadid wrote on Instagram, sharing a cherished photo of the two together. "As a longtime fan, getting to share this day with her was a dream come true."

Kressley, who had spoken to Burrell just days before her death, shared his own heartfelt tribute: "Rest easy, Chef Anne. I'm so blessed I was able to work with you, learn from you, laugh with you. So many memories – on screen and off – I cherish this photo of us living our best lives."

As the culinary world comes together to mourn the loss of this shining star, Burrell's family remains at the forefront of their grief. Her husband Stuart Claxton was last seen alive by her in the early hours of the morning before discovering her body several hours later.

Emergency medical teams responded to the home that she shared with her husband Stuart Claxton, the couple are seen here, but she was pronounced dead at the scene

Burrell's death serves as a poignant reminder that even the brightest lights can be extinguished far too soon. As we reflect on her remarkable life and legacy, let us also remember the importance of mental health awareness and support – a message that Burrell herself would have undoubtedly championed to the end.

In the words of Burrell's beloved cookbook "Cook Like a Rock Star," she left behind a culinary world forever changed by her passion, creativity, and generosity. Rest in peace, Anne – your light will continue to shine bright in our hearts.

Burrell pictured with her husband Stuart Claxton, whom she wed in 2021

Anne developed a passion for cooking at a young age, inspired by her mother's home-cooked meals and by watching food icon Julia Child on television

Gigi Hadid, who famously appeared on the cooking competition series Beat Bobby Flay with Burrell, led the celebrities expressing their heartbreak over Burrell's death

Burrell was later thrust into the spotlight and became best known as the longtime host of Worst Cooks in America; seen in 2022 in New York City