Beloved Food Network Star Anne Burrell Dies at 55

Published: June 18, 2025

Food Network personality and 'Worst Cooks in America' host Anne Burrell has passed away at the age of 55. According to reps for the star, she was found unresponsive at her Brooklyn, New York, home on June 17 and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A Life of Passion and Flavor

Burrell's culinary journey began after graduating from Canisius College with a B.A. in English and communications. She enrolled in the Culinary Institute of America and also studied in Italy. Following a brief stint in Italy, she returned to New York to work under celebrity chef Lidia Bastianich.

Her first Food Network series, 'Secrets of a Restaurant Chef', debuted in 2008 and ran for nine seasons. The show earned a Daytime Emmy nomination in 2011.

A Career Highlight: 'Worst Cooks in America

In 2010, Burrell and chef Beau MacMillan launched their hit cooking competition show 'Worst Cooks in America' on Food Network. She served as the host for 27 of the series' 28 seasons, featuring contestants with poor cooking skills who underwent a culinary boot camp to improve and win a cash prize.

A Loving Family and Stepmom

Burrell met her husband, Stuart Claxton, on the dating app Bumble in 2018 and married him in 2021. Through her marriage, she also became a stepmother to Claxton's son Javier, born in 2005. She occasionally shared photos of the family's celebrations and travels on Instagram.

A Sudden Passing

Burrell died in the morning of June 17 at her home in Brooklyn, New York. She was 55. According to a 911 call report, authorities responded to a call about a reported cardiac arrest at Burrell's house. She was unconscious and unresponsive when they arrived and declared dead on the scene.

"Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered," said her family 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."