In a tragic turn of events, Anne Burrell, the vibrant Food Network star and host of “Worst Cooks in America,” passed away at 55 in her New York home. Well-known for her distinctive spiky blonde hair and infectious laugh, Burrell was a television icon, starring in shows like “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef” and authoring several best-selling cookbooks.
For context, her family described her as a beloved figure whose warmth touched millions. Additionally, The Food Network mourned her loss, highlighting her teaching and impact on the culinary arts. Burrell is survived by husband Stuart Claxton and stepson Javier.
In any case, The Food Network took to social media to announce the beloved chef’s tragic passing. The network revealed, “It is with deep sadness we announce that Anne Burrell, 55, passed away this morning at her home in New York.” Adding, “We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning.”
Adding more details, her family issued their statement, saying, “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered.” Continuing their comments, the family said, “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.”
In response to her tragic passing, fans and family alike recalled Burrell’s words, which provided a valuable insight into her personality. One such quote read, “I feel so lucky to be able to share my true passion in life with others.”
Taking to social media on June 17, 2025, Joey Kinsley, who starred alongside Burrell, said, “The world lost an incredible human today, Chef Anne Burrell. I had the absolute pleasure of being on 2 seasons of Worst Cooks in America, where my latter season I was a Rockin’ Red Star and on her team.”
Adding a personal story, he recounted, “Funny story… the first time I met her on set, I said “Hi Anne, how’s it going?!” She looks down at my failed attempt at shrimp & grits, looks up at me, and says “it’s *Chef* Anne”. I never called her just Anne again.”
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Speaking to their close bond, he said, “Chef Anne became my cooking mom the 2 seasons I was on. She even told me she felt like my cooking mom. She cried both times I was eliminated, and naturally I did too. Chef Anne was incredible at TV and her job, but more importantly, she was an excellent teacher, and most importantly, she was an amazing person,” adding, ” She exemplified tough love, and was the same woman on and off camera.”
Concluding his remarks, the former contestant said, “And when you learned and (sort of) replicated her teachings, she was so proud and uplifting. Because of her, I got over my fear of cooking and made lifelong friends from both of the seasons I was on…I wish I could cook one more meal for her (maybe someone else can eat it though) and give her one more hug. RIP to my cooking mom. You will be greatly missed ❤️🙏”