Celebrity Chef Anne Burrell Has Died
Anne Burrell, whose shock of blonde hair and vivacious personality catapulted her to celebrity chef status, has died at the age of 55. A cause of death has not yet been reported.
A spokesperson confirmed the news that Burrell died the morning of Tuesday, June 17. Burrell was best known as the host and star of the network's Worst Cooks in America , among other shows, but was more than a television chef.
The New York State native, inspired by her mother's talent in the kitchen and her admiration for Julia Child, graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, in 1996. She then spent a year in Italy attending the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners before returning to New York City to begin her career, working as a sous chef alongside Lidia Bastianich at Felidia Ristorante. Burrell then furthered her career working in restaurants and teaching until the chef received her break, appearing as a sous chef on Iron Chef America ; she was later offered her own show. Secrets of a Restaurant Chef ran for nine seasons and was nominated for an Emmy award.
Fueled by her quick wit, everyperson persona, and culinary prowess, Burrell was a regular on shows such as Chef Wanted , Chopped , Worst Cooks in America , and others. Burrell also wrote two cookbooks, the New York Times bestseller Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower. Burrell was also active in charity work, serving on the advisory board of the Garden of Dreams Foundation, and was an advocate for City Harvest and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.
'Anne was not only a talented chef and television personality but also a passionate advocate for the hospitality industry,' said Lee Brian Schrager, founder of the South Beach Wine & Food Festival and New York Wine & Food Festival — both of which Burrell was a headlining talent — was shocked by the news of Burrell's untimely death. 'Her vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and dedication to culinary education inspired countless chefs.'
In a text to Eater, chef Scott Conant shared that their friendship started decades before they were famous. 'I have so many memories of her and her competitive spirit,' he wrote. 'When she worked at Felidia and I worked at San Domenico, we had a fierce rivalry over which restaurant was better and which of us cooked better Italian food. Thirty-plus years of friendship. I'm heartbroken and confused.'
Burrell was happiest when simply hanging at her Caroll Gardens loft with husband Stuart Claxton. Burrell met Claxton on the online dating app, Bumble, and they were married on October 16, 2021. Burrell loved Brooklyn for its ability to welcome her as a person rather than a celebrity. In an interview with Broken Palate, the celebrity chef said she could be herself in her adopted city: 'I do embrace being a New Yorker. I ride the subway. I do my shopping walking up and down Court Street.'
Burrell's last Instagram post reinforced her integration into Brooklyn's heartbeat and rhythm. Five days ago, she posted a selfie with the @greenladyofbrooklyn. 'I have been keeping an eye out for her. I may or may not have followed her down the street for a minute. She is just lovely!!' Burrell added the hashtags #ilovewhatido and #luckygirl. See More:
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Fox News
4 hours ago
- Fox News
Fox News Entertainment Newsletter: Food Network star dead at 55, Jelly Roll inspires Christian singer
Welcome to the Fox News Entertainment Newsletter. TOP 3: -Anne Burrell, Food Network star, dead at 55 -Jelly Roll's wild moment inspired Christian singer Brandon Lake to set boundaries -Carly Simon defends Sabrina Carpenter's controversial album cover, says it's not 'outrageous' FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH - Heather Graham's secrets to fountain of youth as she admits she's happier than ever in her 50s. MOURNING A TALENT - 'Hee Haw' actor Gailard Sartain dead at 81. SPILLING SECRETS - Diddy's alleged 'drug mule' takes the stand with immunity deal; trial reveals dark secrets. SUSSEX EMPIRE - Meghan Markle's new As Ever product launch is driven by desire for 'fame and fortune': experts. COURTROOM CURVEBALL - Blake Lively's request to protect Taylor Swift texts in Justin Baldoni legal battle was shut down by judge. 'FOREVER' GIFT - Bobby Flay remembers Anne Burrell's 'greatest gift' after her sudden death. SOAKING UP THE SUN - Olivia Wilde shows off trim figure in beaded string bikini during Italian getaway. LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
New York Post
6 hours ago
- New York Post
Dan Bucatinsky on if ‘The Comeback' Season 3 could happen
We cherish this idea. Twenty years after HBO gave viewers the beloved sitcom 'The Comeback,' starring Lisa Kudrow, fans may be in store for a Season 3. Kudrow, 61, played sitcom vet Valerie Cherish — a woman desperate to revive her career. The original show aired in 2005 before returning for Season 2 in 2014. Now, Dan Bucatinsky, who played Billy Stanton, Valerie's publicist who couldn't control his anger, is getting candid on the possibility. Advertisement 8 Lisa Kudrow on 'The Comeback.' 'I would love it,' the actor, 59, exclusively told The Post at the 2025 Astra Awards. 'I would love it. It gets talked about all the time. So just know — I hope so.' Although there has been no official word from the network if a reboot is in the cards, Bucatinsky, Kudrow and the rest of the cast would be game. Advertisement 8 Lisa Kudrow as Valerie Cherish in 'The Comeback.' 8 Lisa Kudrow as Valerie Cherish. 'We talk about it all the time,' the 'Scandal' alum confessed. 'If there are talks happening, I can't answer, but we talk about it all the time and we all would love it.' The sitcom also featured Damian Young, Lance Barber, and Robert Bagnell. Robert Michael Morris, who played Kudrow's hairdresser Mickey Deane, passed away in 2017 at age 77. Advertisement 'We worked together a lot over the years,' Bucatinsky reflected. 'But certainly shooting 'The Comeback' was one of them. I think one of the scenes I loved the most with her, was going into her trailer in Season 2 when Billy has just had it and is quitting and throws his phone across the room.' 8 Dan Bucatinsky and Lisa Kudrow attend the premiere of HBO's series 'The Comeback.' Getty Images 'That was a really iconic moment for a publicist who could never really keep his rage to himself,' he went on. 'We had a really good time doing that.' Kudrow was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2006 for Season 1, and again in 2015 for Season 2. Advertisement Michael Patrick King created the satirical comedy that poked fun at reality television and the entertainment industry. He and Kudrow have spoken out about the possibility of another comeback for Valerie Cherish. 8 Dan Bucatinsky and Lisa Kudrow at the 71st Annual Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards. Penske Media via Getty Images 'There's always a meeting, every now and then, where we put ideas on the table,' the director, 70, told Variety in honor of the 20th anniversary of the program earlier this month. 'It has to be a really intricate combination of things to get us both to the place where we think, 'Oh, God.' We laugh at anything; Valerie could be funny anywhere. But the thing we're always looking for is, what would make an event worthy of Valerie coming back? So we're constantly meeting — 'Hey, what about this?'' In 2025, Kudrow feels the show would resonate even stronger with those trying to make it on reality television. 'It's much more identifiable,' the 'Friends' star admitted. 'I've seen 'Housewives.' We have another point of reference for a woman and what she's willing to do. Every one of those Housewives, they know what they're doing; they're playing a role in order to get their brand out there, and it's a means to an end.' 8 Dan Bucatinsky in 'Hacks.' Max In addition to 'The Comeback,' Bucatinsky has his sights set on another role. 'I want to play a villain,' he told the Post. 'I want to play a criminal, a villain or a cop. Maybe not a cop that is a criminal or a villain, but why not?' Advertisement A dream co-star for Bucatinksy would be a few familiar faces that he's worked with in the past — and a few new ones. 8 Dan Bucatinsky and Hannah Einbinder in the hit series 'Hacks.' Max 'I loved working with Corey Hawkins on '24:Legacy,'' he shared. 'I'd love to work with him again. But Lisa Kudrow has been a friend and partner of mine for 20 years. So, I always love working with her again. I've really been lucky to work with a lot of great, strong women and I hope that continues because I'm a fan of so many. Kristen Bell. I would love to work with Kristen.' Bucatinsky recently worked on Season 4 of the hit HBO series 'Hacks.' The show stars Jean Smart as stand up legend Deborah Vance and Hannah Einbinder, a comedy writer. Advertisement 'It was the relationship that I was able to form with Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder,' the producer gushed about his favorite part of joining the cast. 'That friendship is one that I will cherish. Getting to know them off camera, then getting to play with them on camera is a dream. So much of my job on that show was playing the guy whose job it was to wrangle these two forces. I am a father of two, so I was playing dad a little bit on the show as well. But the gift really was being part of that community that felt really strong both behind the scenes and in front of the camera.' 8 Miranda Otto, Dan Bucatinsky in '24: Legacy.' ©20thCentFox/Courtesy Everett Collection The trio's time on set included many chats in the greenroom. 'We would hang out in this little greenroom area at our chairs,' Bucatinsky reminisced. 'We would talk. We would keep each other warm. We would go get tea. We would go get snacks. We would ask each other for advice about everything. Recommendations of movies and documentaries and doctors. And talk about our kids and our pets. And it was really an opportunity in between scenes to really get to know one another.'
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Yahoo
Food Network Family Mourns Anne Burrell's Sudden Death
Food Network Family Mourns Anne Burrell's Sudden Death originally appeared on Parade. Celebrity chef Anne Burrell, host of Worst Cooks in America and participant in numerous Food Network shows, died on Tuesday, June 17, in her Brooklyn home at the age of 55. People broke the news with a statement from her family. "Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered. 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," reads the statement. Burrell is survived by her husband of almost four years, Stuart Claxton, his son, Javier, mother, Marlene, sister Jane, brother Ben, and several nieces and nephews. Of course, she is also being mourned by Food Network stars and fans alike."We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning. 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," said the Food Network in a Facebook post. Chef Robert Irvine posted a beautiful tribute to his Instagram, writing, "I am stunned and deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Anne Burrell. Anne wasn't just a fiery chef. She was a radiant spirit who lit up every room she entered. From the very beginning on Worst Cooks in America, our friendly rivalry was fueled by mutual respect: I'd risk bleaching my hair; she'd risk losing hers. An epic wager that epitomized her unbeatable spirit. It was a wager I ultimately lost, but I couldn't imagine losing to a more fierce competitor. "Outside of Worst Cooks, I came to know her as a generous and supportive colleague and an even better friend. I'll always remember her unwavering dedication, not just to food, but to lifting others up. She believed in nurturing culinary potential and celebrating small victories, whether in an amateur cook or on a charity fundraiser. That was Anne. Uncompromising in her standards, yet tender in her mentorship. "To her husband Stuart, her stepson Javier, her mother Marlene, sister Jane, and her many friends and fans: please know that Anne's warmth, vibrant spirit, and generous heart will echo in kitchens around the world and in our hearts forever. "Rest in peace, Chef. Your legacy as a champion of food, kindness, and empowerment will continue to inspire. Thank you for every lesson, every challenge, and every glorious moment. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten. "With all my love and respect,Robert Irvine." Chef Stephanie Izard posted a photo to Instagram and wrote, "Such a vibrant personality and radiant smile and talent that will not be forgotten. @chefanneburrell you were a true inspiration for so many. My heart goes out to your family and loved ones 💔." Chef Michael Voltaggio shared a photo of the hand-knit baby blanket that Burrell sent to him after the birth of his daughter, Echo, a year ago and wrote, "Anne, thank you for sharing your talents with the world. Aside from being an incredible chef, teacher and colleague, she's also a loyal and thoughtful friend. You consistently reached out to check in during the wins and the losses. Thank you for hand-knitting this beautiful blanket for Echo, and thank you for so many fun memories in and out of the kitchen, chef. ❤️." MasterChef winner Claudia Sandoval posted a photo and wrote, "Rest in peace, Chef Anne Burrell. This photo was taken back in 2016 on the set of Worst Cooks in America, where I had the chance to judge an episode and meet Anne for the first time. Anne was exactly what you saw on TV…boisterous, bold, and completely unapologetic about how she ran her kitchen. Her laugh could fill a room, and her energy was unforgettable. But make no mistake, she was also sharp, serious, and didn't play around when it came to food. She demanded excellence, and she led with conviction. She carved out her own space in this industry and inspired so many along the way. She'll never be forgotten." Worst Cooks in America contestant Denise Schroder penned a lengthy memorial to Burrell on Facebook, writing, "I had such a wild ride when I was cast to season 20 of Food Network, Worst Cooks in America! I was ecstatic when Chef Anne chose me to be on the red team. I can remember running up to her screaming, telling her that I had just named my new cat after her, Kiki Anne! To my utter surprise, the next day she brought her cats to sit and invited me to her green room to meet them! It was just one of those really cool moments!" She continued, "Chef Anne was hard on us, but I loved her wit and humor when I wasn't catching something on fire in the gave me a lot of grace when I left the foot on my chicken, and she would quietly encourage me to keep going! Rest in Peace." Burrell actually just competed on the new Food Network show House of Knives and could also recently be seen as a team captain on two seasons of BBQ Brawl and a judge on Wildcard Kitchen. 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 Food Network Family Mourns Anne Burrell's Sudden Death first appeared on Parade on Jun 17, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
