NEW YORK, NY – The culinary world is in mourning following the sudden passing of beloved Food Network personality Anne Burrell at the age of 55. Details surrounding her death are currently under investigation by authorities, with reports indicating a potential drug overdose.
Burrell, known for her vibrant personality and signature spiky blonde hair on shows like “Worst Cooks in America” and “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,” was found unconscious and unresponsive in the shower of her Brooklyn home on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, by her husband, Stuart Claxton. A 911 call placed around 7:50 AM reported a possible cardiac arrest. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene.
While an official cause of death is still pending toxicology results, an internal New York City Police Department document, viewed by The New York Times, states that Burrell was discovered surrounded by approximately 100 assorted pills. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has completed the autopsy, but findings are yet to be released.
In the wake of this tragic news, tributes have poured in from across the culinary community and beyond. Her family released a heartfelt statement, saying, “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”
Fellow Food Network stars and colleagues have expressed their shock and grief. Chef Duff Goldman remembered Burrell as “as tough as they come, but when you got past the armor there was a depth of compassion and kindness that was absolutely beautiful.” Rachael Ray, a close friend and bridesmaid at Burrell’s 2021 wedding to Claxton, shared her heartbreak, describing Anne as “such a strong, vibrant, fearless woman, so full of life and love, could be gone so soon.”
Friends and family report that Burrell was active and seemingly in good spirits in the days leading up to her death, even performing a surprise stand-up set at the Stonewall Inn on June 16. Her final season of “Worst Cooks in America,” filmed just months before her passing, is scheduled to premiere on Food Network on July 28. The network also plans to air a special programming tribute to honor her extraordinary talent and impact.
As the investigation continues, many questions remain about the circumstances surrounding the passing of this culinary icon.