Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · June 21, 2025 · Entertainment

Tragic End: Anne Burrell's Shocking Passing Under Investigation

The beloved Food Network star, was found dead inside her Brooklyn, New York, apartment on Tuesday

EXCLUSIVE: Beloved Celebrity Chef Anne Burrell Dies Suddenly, Leaving Fans and Family Heartbroken!

In a shocking turn of events, TV personality and culinary queen Anne Burrell has left this mortal coil, sending shockwaves throughout the foodie world. The 55-year-old chef, best known for hosting Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and co-hosting Worst Cooks in America, was found dead inside her Brooklyn apartment on Tuesday afternoon.

According to police documents obtained by The Scholarly Note, Anne's body was discovered in the shower, surrounded by approximately 100 assorted pills. Emergency medical teams responded to the scene, but sadly, Anne was pronounced dead at the location.

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

Anne's husband, Stuart Claxton, reportedly last saw his wife alive around 1 AM the previous night before discovering her unconscious between six to seven hours later in their bathroom. The devastated husband is said to be struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of his beloved partner.

In a statement released by Anne's family, they eulogized the chef as "a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend – her smile lit up every room she entered." Her loved ones revealed that 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."

Food Network officials also released a statement, praising Anne as "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." The network's spokesperson added, "Our thoughts are with Anne's family, friends, and fans during this time of tremendous loss."

Burrell attends the Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival on October 15, 2022 in New York City

Just hours before her passing, Anne had performed an improv show at a comedy club in Brooklyn, after taking classes at the venue's training center. In a podcast recorded earlier this year, she spoke candidly about taking acting classes and how she planned to expand her horizons.

Anne's sudden demise has sent shockwaves throughout the culinary world, with many of her celebrity friends and colleagues expressing their heartfelt condolences. Supermodel Gigi Hadid, who appeared on Beat Bobby Flay with Anne, led the tributes, writing: "I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of the Great Anne Burrell... As a longtime fan, getting to share this day with her was a dream come true. Beat Bobby. Hang. Eat..."

Carla Hall, a fellow Food Network star, called Anne an "incredible cook and teacher." Carson Kressley, who appeared on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy and was a close friend of Anne's, revealed that he had spoken to her just days before her death.

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

In a poignant Instagram post, Carson wrote: "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 kids say. That's what I wish for you where you are now."

Anne is survived by her husband Stuart, whom she wed in October 2021; her mother Marlene; sister Jane; children Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas; and brother Ben.

Born to a family of foodies, Anne developed a passion for cooking at a young age, inspired by her mother's home-cooked meals and the culinary mastery of Julia Child. After earning a degree in English and Communications from Canisius College in Buffalo, she followed her culinary dreams and enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, graduating in 1996.

Burrell is seen here alongside Gigi Hadid, who paid tribute to the late chef earlier this week

Anne went on to work at some of New York City's hottest hotspots, including Felidia and Savoy in Soho, before being thrust into the spotlight as the host of Worst Cooks in America. The show, which ran for 28 seasons, saw celebrated chefs mentor amateur cooks in an attempt to transform them from rookies to kitchen experts.

Anne was also a prolific cookbook author, penning two best-selling volumes – Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire & Empower. Her love of cooking and her infectious enthusiasm made her a beloved figure on the culinary scene.

As we bid farewell to this culinary queen, we can't help but wonder what secrets she would have shared with us next. Rest in peace, Anne Burrell – your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.

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

Burrell makes a culinary presentation during the Food Network New York City Wine & Food on October 15, 2022