Anne Burrell, renowned Food Network personality and host of the popular reality cooking show ‘Worst Cooks in America,’ has died at the age of 55, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, spirit, and boundless love. The news came through a press release issued by the Food Network, confirming Burrell’s passing and expressing the network’s deep sadness.
Burrell’s family also paid tribute to the late celebrity chef, describing her as a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend whose smile touched millions. Her family emphasized that her light continued to shine through her work and impact on countless lives.
The Food Network honored Burrell with an Instagram post, reflecting on her remarkable career and the joy she brought through her culinary passion. Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike, highlighting her enduring influence in the culinary world.
Burrell was born on September 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, New York. Her passion for food and cooking began at a young age, inspired by her love for Julia Child and her mother’s culinary talents. She studied English and Communication at Canisius College before pursuing her culinary education at the Culinary Institute of America and later at the Italian Culinary Institute in Italy.
Following her studies, Burrell worked as a sous chef at Felidia Ristorante in New York, which later led to her role as chef at Savoy restaurant. She also taught at the Institute of Culinary Education before launching her television career. Her first TV appearance was in 2005 on ‘Iron Chef America,’ where she worked as a sous chef for Mario Batali.
Burrell later starred in her own show, ‘Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,’ which received multiple Emmy nominations and ran for nine seasons. She became a staple on Food Network, appearing on shows such as ‘Chef Wanted,’ ‘Chopped,’ and ‘Food Network Star.’ She co-hosted ‘Worst Cooks in America’ for 27 seasons, a role she held until late 2023.
Lately, Burrell was part of the new Food Network series ‘House of Knives,’ which debuted in March. In addition to her television and culinary work, Burrell was actively involved in charity, serving on the Garden of Dreams Foundation Advisory Board and as a celebrity ambassador for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Her husband, Stuart Claxton, and their son, Javier, are among those who survive her, as are her mother, Marlene, and sister, Jane. The Food Network’s press release highlighted Burrell’s gratitude for her career and her passion for spreading the love of food.
Burrell’s passing has left a void in the culinary community, with many mourning the loss of a beloved figure who inspired countless others through her work and dedication. Her legacy will continue through her recipes, television appearances, and the countless lives she touched through her teachings and love for cooking.