Credited from: HUFFPOST
Chef Anne Burrell, a beloved figure on the Food Network renowned for her energetic personality and mentorship on the show Worst Cooks in America, has passed away at the age of 55. She was found unresponsive at her home in Brooklyn, New York, on June 17, with law enforcement responding to reports of a possible cardiac arrest prior to her death, according to NPR and Newsweek.
Burrell's family confirmed her passing, stating that "Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend" whose warmth and spirit touched millions. Her influential career on television began as a sous chef on Iron Chef America, where she garnered significant attention, leading to her own program, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, and ultimately her iconic role on Worst Cooks in America, which she hosted from 2010 through 2024, as reported by LA Times and SFGATE.
Following her death, numerous colleagues shared heartfelt tributes celebrating her vibrant personality and culinary contributions. Robert Irvine, co-host of Worst Cooks in America, described her as "a radiant spirit" and a generous mentor, reflecting that she was "uncompromising in her standards, yet tender in her mentorship," according to Channel News Asia and Newsweek.
Throughout her career, Burrell was known for her bold and flavorful recipes that celebrated Italian cuisine. Her cookbooks, including Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen, showcased her approach to cooking that emphasized joy and creativity in the kitchen. She worked passionately to inspire home cooks and lift spirits through her television appearances and philanthropic endeavors, which included engagement with various charities such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, as detailed in CBS News and India Times.
Burrell is survived by her husband Stuart Claxton, his son Javier, her mother Marlene, and her siblings. Her family's statement reflects the deep impact she had on many, emphasizing that "Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world," as reported by HuffPost and Salon.