The culinary world is reeling from the heartbreaking news that Anne Burrell — celebrity chef, Food Network icon, and beloved television personality — has died at the age of 55.
Burrell’s death was confirmed Tuesday by both her family and the Food Network, the channel where she rose to stardom and became a household name with her signature spiky blonde hair, contagious laugh, and unapologetically bold approach to cooking.
“We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning,” the network shared in a statement. “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.”
No cause of death has yet been disclosed.
Anne Burrell’s legacy stretches far beyond her accomplishments in the kitchen. A native of upstate New York, she was a beacon of energy and authenticity, lighting up every screen she graced — from Secrets of a Restaurant Chef to Worst Cooks in America, one of the network’s most successful and longest-running series. Her infectious enthusiasm, culinary expertise, and empowering spirit inspired millions of aspiring cooks.
Burrell is survived by her husband of nearly four years, Stuart Claxton, and his son, Javier; her mother, Marlene; and her sister, Jane. In a statement, her family expressed the profound loss they feel:
“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.”
Beyond television, Burrell’s career spanned restaurants, classrooms, and bestselling books. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners, she brought classical skill and rustic Italian soul to her food. She also mentored countless young chefs as a teacher at the Institute of Culinary Education, before becoming a mainstay on television.
Her books, Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen, became go-to guides for home cooks across America. Off-camera, Burrell gave her heart to causes close to her — as an advocate for juvenile diabetes awareness, a champion of underserved youth through the Garden of Dreams Foundation, and a dedicated supporter of City Harvest.
Anne Burrell’s passing leaves an unmistakable void — in kitchens, in classrooms, and in the hearts of those who found confidence and joy through her cooking.
She was a rock star. A teacher. A friend. A firecracker in the kitchen who never dimmed her flame.
She will be deeply missed.