Renowned chef and television star Anne Burrell, widely recognized for her signature spiked blonde hair, lively personality, and culinary talent, passed away on Tuesday, June 17, at her home in Brooklyn, New York.
In a heartfelt statement, her family shared, “Anne was a cherished wife, daughter, sister, stepmother, and friend. Her radiant smile lit up every room. She touched countless lives across the globe, and though she’s gone, her spirit, warmth, and love will live on forever.”
She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, whom she married in 2021. Although the couple had no biological children, she embraced the role of stepmother to Claxton’s son, Javier.
Anne was discovered unresponsive in her home earlier that day. While the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, she had been active online just days before her passing. Her recent social media posts included attending an improv class at The Second City in New York and joining a dinner event hosted by fellow chef Elizabeth Falkner. Her final update showed her strolling through her Brooklyn neighborhood and meeting the local figure known as The Green Lady of Brooklyn.
Earlier in June, Burrell took part in several events in Florida in partnership with CareRite Centers and their Signature Culinary Excellence program. The initiative aimed to enhance dining in healthcare settings by offering meals that, as Anne described, were “good for the soul.”
A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, she continued her training in Italy before returning to work in restaurants and alongside Mario Batali. Her big break came with an appearance on Iron Chef America, which led to her own Food Network show, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef. In 2010, she began co-hosting the hit series Worst Cooks in America, including its celebrity edition.
She was noticeably absent from the most recent season of the show, which aired earlier this year—marking the first season without her, with Antonia Lofaso and Jeff Mauro stepping in.
Anne Burrell leaves behind a legacy of passion, mentorship, and joy that will be remembered by both colleagues and fans alike.
