Beloved Food Network star Anne Burrel’s family confirmed the news in a heartbreaking statement.
Anne Burrell passed away Tuesday morning, June 17 at her Brooklyn home. She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, and his son, Javier, her mother, Marlene, her sister Jane, her children Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas, as well as 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, per People.
While her cause of d.ea..th remains unclear, a spokesperson for The Food Network similarly confirmed the sad news.
“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,” the rep told Page Six. “Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends, and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
Fans have taken to Instagram in order 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 quickly became a beloved personality on the network, gaining popularity through her roles in various shows—most notably the hit series Worst Cooks in America, often considered her signature work. Her culinary journey began at the Culinary Institute of America, from which she graduated in 1996. She then honed her skills abroad, completing apprenticeships at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners.
Back in the U.S., Anne worked in several acclaimed Manhattan restaurants, including Felidia under Lidia Bastianich and Savoy, where she developed expertise in Mediterranean cuisine.
By the early 2000s, she had transitioned into education, teaching at the Institute of Culinary Education. Her move into television followed shortly after, starting as a sous chef on Iron Chef America. She later earned Emmy nominations for her own show, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, and continued her TV career with appearances on Chef Wanted, Chopped, Food Network Star, and most recently, House of Knives, which debuted in March 2025.
We will update as the story develops.
