The culinary world is mourning the loss of Anne Burrell, the beloved Food Network star who passed away on Tuesday, June 17, at the age of 55.
Known for her fiery personality and talent, Burrell was a mentor on Worst Cooks in America, where she helped struggling cooks transform their kitchen skills.
Food Network stars and celebrities alike have expressed their grief and shared heartfelt tributes to the chef who touched so many lives.
Kandi Burruss, Wells Adams, and Gigi Hadid Join in the Tribute
Burrell’s Worst Cooks co-stars, including Carla Hall and Tyler Florence, were among the first to speak out following her passing.
“I’m heartbroken to hear about Anne’s passing,” Hall, who appeared on Top Chef, said in a statement. “She was fierce, funny, and an incredibly talented cook and teacher—someone who brought so much fire and joy to everything she did. She will be deeply missed.”
Former Bachelor star Wells Adams also paid tribute on his Instagram, sharing a photo with Burrell from a previous Food Network appearance. “I just heard about the passing of @chefanneburrell.
I learned so much from you on Worst Cooks. I know you’ll be cooking up a storm in heaven. RIP,” he wrote.
Gigi Hadid, who had guest-starred alongside Burrell on Beat Bobby Flay, shared her sadness on Instagram. “I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of the Great Anne Burrell. As a longtime fan, getting to share this day with her was a dream come true,” she wrote.
Tributes from Fellow Chefs and Reality TV Stars
Tyler Florence, who co-hosted Worst Cooks in America with Burrell, shared a touching message. “Anne was a legendary chef and an even better friend.
She was the kind of person who showed up — for dinners, our kids’ birthday parties, or a swim in the ocean — and lit up every room she walked in to,” Florence recalled.
He continued, “She had a true gift for teaching people how to cook — with patience, wit, and just the right amount of sass. I’ll always picture Anne in her dressing room, knitting between takes, with one of her cats wandering in to say hello.”
Other Food Network stars also expressed their admiration for Burrell. Buddy Valastro, known for Cake Boss, wrote on Instagram, “Anne, your passion, energy, and love for food lit up every kitchen. You were a true force and a beautiful soul. Rest in peace, Chef. We’ll miss you dearly.”
Alec Mapa, who appeared on Worst Cooks in America, said in a statement, “Chef Anne Burrell’s passion and curiosity for all things cuisine was endearing and inspirational as she was.”
Burrell’s Career and Legacy
Anne Burrell’s culinary journey began with her mother’s home-cooked meals and her admiration for television legend Julia Child. After studying at the Culinary Institute of America, Burrell quickly made a name for herself in the culinary world.
She first appeared on Iron Chef America as a sous chef before becoming a Food Network staple, hosting multiple shows like Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, Chef Wanted, Chopped, and Food Network Star.
Burrell’s most recent appearance was on the competition series House of Knives, which premiered in March 2025.
A Loving Family and Final Days
Burrell passed away at her home in Brooklyn, N.Y. While the cause of death has not yet been released, her family issued a statement expressing their grief. “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” they wrote.
“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.”
Burrell is survived by her husband Stuart Claxton, whom she married in October 2021, his son Javier, and her own family members, including her mother, Marlene, her sister Jane, and her brother Ben.
Anne Burrell’s legacy will live on in the kitchens she transformed, the people she mentored, and the millions who admired her passion for cooking. Her infectious energy, humor, and talent will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and fans alike.
