When Food Network fan favorite Anne Burrell passed away on June 17th, 2025, her biggest cheerleader was right beside her.

Marketing executive Stuart Claxton, her devoted husband, stood as a testament to the power of love found later in life.

Their romance, sparked on a dating app, blossomed into a fairy tale fall wedding that proved a second chapter of love can be just as sweet and surprising as the first.

Here’s the full story of how the British-born brand strategist became the late chef’s partner in both life and laughter, and how their love story touched countless hearts.

Anne Burrell and Stuart Claxton’s journey began in the digital age, on the dating app Bumble in early 2018.

At that time, Anne was deeply immersed in filming Worst Cooks in America, a show that had cemented her as a beloved culinary personality.

Meanwhile, Stuart was making his mark in New York City, leading brand partnerships for prominent companies.

Despite their busy and demanding professional lives, they both sensed something special from their very first interaction.

Burrell later shared that the connection felt immediate and genuine, unlike anything either had experienced before.

Within weeks of matching, the two were planning real-life dates, navigating the challenges of conflicting schedules and public lives.

Their conversations ranged from shared interests in food and culture to their dreams and fears, building a foundation that was both deep and playful.

The excitement of a new romance blended with the comfort of knowing they had found a true partner.

The year 2020 brought unexpected challenges with the global pandemic, but also intimate moments that would define their relationship.

Locked down in Burrell’s hometown of Kazanovia, New York, Stuart Claxton planned a surprise date night that would forever be etched in their memories.

He prepared a cozy dinner with her family present, a gesture that spoke volumes about his commitment and respect for those Anne loved most.

Adding a personal touch, Stuart curated a playlist of songs that hinted at their future together—a subtle but meaningful prelude to what was to come.

The highlight of the evening was the moment Stuart revealed a ring he had been hiding in his pocket for weeks.

Burrell’s reaction was a mix of happy tears and laughter, overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness and love behind the proposal.

The playlist’s hidden message was a perfect symbol of their fairy tale unfolding, even amidst uncertain times.

On October 16th, 2021, Anne Burrell and Stuart Claxton exchanged vows at the picturesque Windridge Estates’ Red Barn 20 in Kazanovia.

The venue’s rustic charm provided a warm and inviting backdrop for a ceremony that was both elegant and heartfelt.

The bride made a grand entrance by horse-drawn carriage, wearing a stunning Carolina Herrera gown that captured her vibrant personality and grace.

In a moment that captured her spirited nature, Anne shouted “Yes I do!” before the officiant finished the question, a story she fondly recounted on the Rachel Ray Show.

The presence of family was deeply felt, especially with Stuart’s teenage son, Javier, serving as best man—a symbol of the blending of their lives and families.

The guest list included close friends and Food Network colleagues such as Alex Guarnaschelli and Jeff Mauro, who celebrated alongside the couple.

The reception featured a thoughtfully crafted menu that reflected Anne’s culinary passions, including roasted cauliflower steak and pumpkin sage ravioli.

The evening ended on a sweet note with a cake created by renowned baker Buddy Velstrom, delighting guests and marking the beginning of their new life together.

Before their wedding, Anne and Stuart had never lived together, making the transition to shared life an exciting adventure.

The years 2022 and 2023 became a crash course in cohabitation, filled with moments of adjustment, laughter, and discovery.

Stuart described the experience as “wonderful, to say the least,” highlighting how Anne’s spontaneous pasta nights and Javier’s frequent visits turned their Brooklyn apartment into a lively revolving dinner party.

Their home became a hub of warmth and joy, a place where culinary creativity and family bonds flourished.

Social media captured their happiness, with selfies and candid moments at City Harvest galas, cricket matches, and backyard barbecues showcasing a family hitting its joyful stride.

This period solidified their connection, blending their worlds into one filled with love, support, and shared experiences.

Born in England, Claxton’s background is as rich and diverse as his relationship with Anne Burrell.

He pursued higher education with a degree in Spanish and Philosophy from Swansea University, followed by a Master’s in Media Management from the University of Stirling.

His career trajectory is marked by impressive accomplishments spanning nearly 13 years at Guinness World Records, where he honed his skills in marketing and communications.

Following this, he took on leadership roles at major companies such as Time Inc.

and Univision, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex brand landscapes with creativity and strategic insight.

In January 2023, Stuart stepped into the role of Vice President of Marketing and Communications at the leadership nonprofit Next Up, further cementing his reputation as a dynamic and empathetic leader.

Colleagues often describe him as a “growth hacker” who leads with empathy—qualities that clearly resonated with a chef celebrated for transforming kitchen chaos into confidence.

The announcement of Anne Burrell’s passing was met with an outpouring of grief from fans and friends alike.

In the family’s statement, Stuart Claxton was singled out as her beloved partner, whose unwavering support and love brightened every room she entered.

Though their marriage lasted just under four years, those close to them say it delivered a lifetime of laughter, travel, and shared moments—like late-night garlic bread sessions—that defined their bond.

Anne’s fans remember her for her fiery passion on screen and her ability to inspire home cooks around the world.

Yet, behind the scenes, it was Stuart who often stood just off camera, cheering her on with the same exuberance and devotion she brought to every dish she stirred.

Their story is a poignant reminder that love can bloom at any stage of life and that even in the face of tragedy, the joy of shared moments and genuine connection endures.

Stuart Claxton’s journey with Anne Burrell is a testament to resilience, partnership, and the enduring power of love—a legacy that continues to inspire.