Food Network Star Anne Burrell Dies at 55
The culinary world is mourning the loss of Food Network star Anne Burrell, who passed away on Tuesday morning in New York at the age of 55. According to People, Burrell died in her Brooklyn home, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved chef, author, and television personality.
Burrell was best known for hosting the reality show Worst Cooks in America and appearing on various other Food Network shows, including Chef Wanted, Chopped, and Food Network Star. Her most recent appearance was on the cooking competition show House of Knives, which premiered in March. As noted by The Independent‘s reporting, Burrell was a cherished figure in the culinary world, with a career spanning multiple television shows and best-selling books.
In addition to her television career, Burrell was a published author, with her 2011 New York Times bestseller Cook Like a Rockstar and her second book, Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower, published two years later. She also taught at the Institute of Culinary Education, sharing her passion for cooking with aspiring chefs. As The Independent previously reported, Burrell’s love of food and cooking inspired countless fans and colleagues.
"Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered," her family said in a statement, as reported by People. "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." Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, her step-son, Javier, her mother, her sister, and her brother.
Burrell and Claxton met in 2018 via the dating app Bumble, and got engaged in 2020 and married a year later. Claxton described their marriage as "wonderful" in a 2023 interview with People, saying: "Anne and I hadn’t lived together before we moved in and got married, so it’s been a whole adventure, but very lovely at the same time.” As The Independent reported, Burrell’s friends and colleagues are remembering her for her warm personality and culinary expertise.
The Food Network also paid tribute to Burrell, with a spokesperson 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." The Independent has confirmed that Burrell’s final Instagram post was a selfie with Elizabeth Sweetheart, also known as the iconic "Green Lady of Brooklyn," just four days before her passing.
Tributes have been pouring in for Burrell, including from RuPaul’s Drag Race star Ginger Minj, who wrote: "I am so incredibly sad to hear of the passing of my friend @AnneBurrell today. I hope you are rocking out and cooking up a feast tonight!" As The Independent continues to report on this story, we invite readers to share their own tributes and memories of Anne Burrell.
This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
