Food Network Chef Anne Burrell Passed Away At 55

Chef Anne Burrell, known for her fiery red hair and big personality on Food Network, passed away on the morning of June 17, 2025, at her Brooklyn home. She was 55 years old. The network confirmed her passing in a heartfelt statement shared with CBS News.

The Food Network said:

“We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning.
“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.”

A Legacy of Flavor and Fire

Anne’s family remembered her not just as a TV personality, but as someone who brought warmth and love to every part of her life. Her family said in a statement:

“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.”

She is survived by her husband of almost four years, Stuart Claxton, his son Javier, her mother Marlene, and her sister Jane.

From Restaurants to the Small Screen

Burrell got her start in upstate New York and studied English and communications at Canisius College. She later attended the Culinary Institute of America, graduating in 1996, and went on to study in Italy at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. Back in New York, she worked as sous chef at Felidia Ristorante before becoming head chef at Savoy in SoHo.

She eventually made the leap to teaching at the Institute of Culinary Education before becoming a Food Network favorite. Anne starred in Secrets of a Restaurant Chef for nine seasons and was best known for hosting Worst Cooks in America, one of the network’s top shows. She also appeared on Chopped, Iron Chef America, and Beat Bobby Flay, to name a few.

More Than a Chef

Anne wasn’t just about food — she cared deeply about giving back. She supported the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and served on the boards of the Garden of Dreams Foundation and City Harvest’s Food Council.

Her cookbooks Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen inspired home chefs everywhere. Her passion, kindness, and fierce energy will be missed but never forgotten.