Beloved Food Network star Anne Burrell died Tuesday morning, June 17 at her Brooklyn home. She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, and his son, Javier, as well as her mother, Marlene, her sister Jane, her children Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas, and her brother Ben.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend—her smile lit up every room she entered,” the family wrote in a heartfelt statement. “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.”
While her cause of death remains unclear, a spokesperson for The Food Network similarly confirmed the devastating news.
“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,” the rep said. “Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
Fans have taken to Instagram to express their condolences. “One of my all time favorite chefs. So so talented and amazingly engaging to watch on TV. This is really sad 😔” one user wrote on Instagram. “What???? What a loss. She had such a great spirit and energy,” another chimed in.
“Oh my goodness how tragic 💔😢” a third added.
Anne was a fan-favorite of the network and appeared in numerous shows throughout her career—including, arguably, her most iconic: Worst Cooks in America. She first got her start at the Culinary Institute of America, before graduating in 1996 and moving abroad to complete her apprenticeships at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. She later worked at restaurants across Manhattan, including Felidia under Lidia Bastianchich and Savoy, where she mastered Mediterranean.
By the early 2000s, Burrell was teaching at the Institute of Culinary Education. Soon after, she made the transition to television. She joined The Food Network as a sous chef on Iron Chef America before nabbing Emmy nominations for her own follow-up series, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef. She went on to appear on Chef Wanted, Chopped, Food Network Star, and House of Knives, which premiered in March 2025.
