Anne Burrell, a beloved culinary icon and longtime host on the Food Network, has died at the age of 55, according to statements released by her family and the network on Tuesday. Known for her fiery red hair, magnetic personality, and signature spiked style, Burrell spent decades teaching, entertaining, and inspiring millions through her food and television appearances.
“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,” the Food Network said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends, and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
A Culinary Powerhouse Turned TV Favorite
Burrell was a native of upstate New York and began her culinary journey after earning a degree in English and communications from Canisius College in Buffalo. She later graduated from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in 1996 and spent a transformative year studying at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners.
Upon returning to the United States in 1998, she became sous chef at Manhattan’s acclaimed Felidia Ristorante. She would go on to lead the kitchen at Savoy in SoHo, further establishing her reputation in New York’s competitive culinary scene.
Before fully diving into television, Burrell served as a culinary educator at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City, where she taught for more than three years. Her transition to television would cement her as one of the most recognizable faces in food entertainment.
Star of “Worst Cooks in America” and More
Burrell rose to fame as the host of Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, which ran for nine seasons on the Food Network. But it was her role on Worst Cooks in America—a show she hosted for many years—that made her a household name. The series became one of the network’s most popular programs, showcasing Burrell’s unique mix of tough love, humor, and culinary expertise.
She also appeared on a host of other Food Network favorites, including Iron Chef America, Chopped, Chopped All-Stars, Beat Bobby Flay, and Food Network Star. Her mentorship style and larger-than-life presence made her a standout in the competitive food television space.
A Life of Service and Influence
In addition to her television career, Burrell was a celebrated author. Her debut cookbook, Cook Like a Rock Star, was a New York Times top 10 bestseller. Her follow-up, Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower, emphasized accessible, confidence-boosting recipes for home cooks.
Beyond the kitchen, Burrell was a passionate advocate for health and youth development. She served as a celebrity ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and sat on advisory boards for both the Garden of Dreams Foundation and City Harvest’s Food Council—organizations that provide critical services and opportunities to underserved children and help combat hunger in New York City, respectively.
Tributes and Legacy
Burrell is survived by her husband of nearly four years, Stuart Claxton, and his son, Javier, along with her mother, Marlene, and sister, Jane.
In a heartfelt statement, her family said:
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — 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.”
The culinary world and fans alike are mourning her passing, remembering her not just for her television success but for her relentless dedication to education, advocacy, and the joy of sharing food.
Why It Matters
Anne Burrell’s death marks the loss of one of the most dynamic personalities in modern American food media. As both a trailblazer and educator, she empowered everyday cooks, championed young culinary talent, and used her platform to give back to the community. Her passing leaves a void in the culinary world, but her legacy will continue to live on through her shows, books, and the countless chefs and viewers she inspired.
What’s Next
No official memorial details have been announced yet. The Food Network and affiliated organizations are expected to honor her legacy through tribute segments and charitable initiatives. Fans across the country continue to express their condolences online, sharing favorite memories, recipes, and lessons learned from the woman who helped them “own their kitchen.”
