Anne Burrell, the vibrant and fiercely talented chef celebrated for her decades-long career on the Food Network, passed away unexpectedly at her Brooklyn home on June 17th, 2025. She was only 55 years old. The news shocked fans, colleagues, and the culinary community alike, prompting heartfelt tributes that underscore the profound influence she had on the food world and the people she touched.

Best known as a mentor on the popular show Worst Cooks in America, Anne brought a unique blend of toughness, warmth, and humor that made her an unforgettable figure on television. Her colleagues and celebrity friends quickly took to social media to express their grief and share memories of her infectious energy and mentorship.

Bobby Flay, a fellow mentor on Worst Cooks in America, shared a touching tribute on Instagram featuring a photo of Anne cradling one of her cherished Mun Cats. He wrote, “The greatest gift I got from AB was turning me onto a world of Mun Cats, including Nacho. A gift that I’ll have forever.” Flay also reflected on how Worst Cooks was the “funnest show on TV,” largely thanks to Anne’s vibrant spirit.

Carla Hall, co-host on the same show, posted a heartfelt message celebrating Anne’s fierce yet nurturing personality. “She was fierce, funny, and an incredibly talented cook and teacher,” Hall said, recalling Anne’s signature style—custom skirts, mismatched socks, and that unforgettable big smile. Michael Symon, another Worst Cooks alum, reminisced about their sizzling chemistry in the kitchen, describing Anne as one of the most competitive but loving teachers he ever knew. He hoped she was now surrounded by highlighters and hockey games in “Chef Heaven.”

Tributes poured in from across the Food Network and beyond. Giada De Laurentiis expressed her sorrow on Instagram, lamenting the loss of a chef who brought joy to kitchens everywhere. Eric Aapong, a judge on Wildcard Kitchen, extended his condolences on Food Network’s post, writing, “So incredibly sad. My heart to Chef Anne’s family and friends. What a loss. RIP chef.”

Other notable culinary stars including Sunny Anderson, Robert Irvine, Buddy Valastro, Aaron Sanchez, and Lonnie Love honored Anne’s legacy, remembering her passion, kindness, and lasting influence. Rachel Ray, a close friend who served as a bridesmaid at Anne’s 2021 wedding, described the news as “truly shaken us” and called Anne a rock star who never made anyone feel out of place. Model and Beat Bobby Flay guest Gigi Hadid also expressed heartbreak and gratitude for their shared experience.

Former guest stars such as Vivica A. Fox, Bridget Everett, Melba Wilson, and Manique Chawan fondly recalled Anne’s mentorship that extended well beyond cooking—teaching proper knife skills, performing karaoke, and even playing hockey, showing her care and connection went far deeper than the kitchen.

Anne’s career spanned decades, marked by her role as a sous chef on Iron Chef America, host of Secrets of a Restaurant Chef from 2008 to 2017, and her long-standing mentorship on Worst Cooks in America since 2010. Her final series, House of Knives, premiered in March 2025, showcasing her signature no-nonsense instruction paired with warm humor. She inspired countless viewers and aspiring chefs through cooking demonstrations, charity work, and her unmistakable fiery spirit.

Food Network issued an official statement on Instagram, saying, “We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef Anne Burrell passed away this morning. Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends, and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”

Anne Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton; stepson Javier; her three children; and her mother Marlene, along with siblings Jane and Ben. Her family remembered her as a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend whose smile lit up every room.

From the bustling kitchens of New York City to national television stages, Anne Burrell’s impact will continue to resonate. As the culinary world grieves, memories of her laughter, wisdom, and fiery passion serve as a poignant reminder that some chefs leave behind more than meals—they leave legacies.