Remembering Anne Burrell: A Bright Culinary Light Gone Too Soon

Remembering Anne Burrell A Bright Culinary Light Gone Too Soon

Remembering Anne Burrell: A Bright Culinary Light Gone Too Soon

I still can't believe I'm saying this, but Anne Burrell — the wildly talented and endlessly energetic chef we all knew and loved from the Food Network — has passed away. The official report came in recently, and it’s just heartbreaking. Anne died by suicide, with the New York City medical examiner confirming that her death was due to acute intoxication from a combination of substances. She was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn home on June 17 and was pronounced dead at the scene.

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This loss is so much more than just the passing of a celebrity chef. Anne was a true force in the kitchen, and even more so in life. Whether you knew her from Secrets of a Restaurant Chef , Worst Cooks in America , or any of her countless guest appearances — from Chopped to the TODAY show — you knew she brought energy, warmth, and a big personality to everything she did.

Her love for food began at home, inspired by her mother and cooking icon Julia Child. She studied at the Culinary Institute of America, then refined her skills in Italy before returning to New York City, where she worked under legends like Lidia Bastianich. Anne didn’t just cook — she taught, inspired, and mentored. She authored bestselling cookbooks, mentored aspiring chefs on TV, and brought joy to millions with her boisterous laugh and unmistakable style.

Just the night before her death, she was doing improv comedy with friends at The Second City in Brooklyn. That detail is so Anne — always vibrant, always creative. It’s hard to imagine that someone who gave so much joy was silently struggling. Her family said it best: “Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”

Anne leaves behind her husband Stuart Claxton, his son Javier, and a loving family who supported her throughout her career. The culinary world is grieving — and rightly so. She was one of a kind. A teacher, a performer, a chef, a friend.

If you're struggling, please reach out. Help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Anne’s story reminds us that even the brightest lights can hide the deepest pain. Let’s check in on each other more often. Let’s lead with kindness.

We’ll miss you, Anne. Thank you for everything.

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