Anne Burrell, Worst Cooks in America Host, Dies at 55

Published: June 18, 2025

Anne Burrell, the beloved host of Worst Cooks in America, has passed away at the age of 55. The news was confirmed by Food Network, where Burrell's passing was met with an outpouring of tributes from fellow chefs, celebrities, and friends.

Burrell died on Tuesday, June 17, at her home in Brooklyn, N.Y. The cause of death was not immediately released.

"We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning," Food Network shared in an Instagram post. "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. Our thoughts are with Anne's family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss."

Fellow Food Network star Eric Adjepong commented on the network's post, "So incredibly sad. My heart to Chef Anne's family and friends. What a loss. RIP Chef."

Today co-host and The Voice host Carson Daly also commented, "In shock. Praying for her family & friends. What happened?"

Independence Day actress and Worst Cooks contestant Vivica A. Fox wrote in a statement to PEOPLE, "Anne taught me all about good food! I had a BLAST working with her and going to her restaurant for a good meal. I'll miss her kindness, smile and great hair! May she rest in paradise."

Several other celebrities and fellow Food Network stars paid tribute to Burrell, including Gigi Hadid, Carson Kressley, and Tyler Florence.

Burrell was born on September 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, N.Y. She discovered her love for cooking early, inspired by her mother's home-cooked meals and television icon, Julia Child. She studied English and Communication at Canisius College in Buffalo before pursuing a culinary career at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, where she graduated from in 1996.

Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, whom she wed on October 16, 2021, and his son, Javier, as well as her mother, Marlene, and 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," her family said in a 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."

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