Food Network Chef Anne Burrell Dies at 55
Renowned Food Network chef Anne Burrell has passed away at the age of 55. According to a New York Police Department spokesperson, Burrell was found unconscious at her Brooklyn, New York home on Tuesday morning around 7:50 a.m. Emergency services were promptly called to the scene, where she was pronounced dead.
The cause of death has not been disclosed, and an investigation is currently ongoing. Burrell’s family has released a statement, obtained by Page Six, describing her as a "beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend." The statement reads: "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."
A Food Network spokesperson has also commented on Burrell’s death, stating: "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."
Burrell, who was married to Stuart Claxton, whom she wed in October 2021, was also a stepmother to Claxton’s son, Javier. The couple tied the knot at Burrell’s upstate New York hometown of Cazenovia. In a recent interview with Page Six, Burrell gave an exclusive look at her vibrant loft in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn, including her kitchen. She told Page Six: "I had an architect/designer, and … the design part he was offering was very beige — and I’m not beige. Everything here is a little crooked, and I think that suits me just well. I think I’m a little crooked, so I feel right at home here."
Burrell’s culinary career began shortly after graduating from Canisius College in New York with degrees in English and communication. She later graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1997 and spent a year in Italy at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. Burrell went on to cook at several restaurants before teaching at the Institute of Culinary Education. Her TV career kicked off in 2005 when she appeared on "Iron Chef America" as a sous chef. Three years later, she landed her own show, "Secrets of a Restaurant Chef," which aired for eight seasons until 2012. Burrell also made appearances in "Chef Wanted," "Chopped," and other Food Network segments. Her most recent show was the "Food Network’s House of Knives" competition, which aired in March.
The "Cook Like a Rock Star" author is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, and their son, Javier. Burrell’s family and friends are mourning her loss, and tributes have been pouring in from the culinary world and beyond. As Page Six reports, Burrell was known for her spiky blond hair and vibrant personality, which endeared her to millions of fans around the world.
In the wake of her passing, Page Six has learned that Burrell’s loved ones are celebrating her life and legacy. Her family has spoken of her boundless love and warmth, which touched the lives of everyone she met. As the investigation into her death continues, Page Six will provide updates and tributes to this beloved Food Network chef.
