Celebrity chef and Food Network star, Anne Burrell, was tragically found “unconscious and unresponsive” in her Brooklyn home on the morning of Tuesday, June 17. The New York City Police Department confirmed that she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Her family soon issued a statement confirming her passing. “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend. Her smile lit up every room she entered,” the statement read. They added, “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.”
As of now, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has not determined the cause of death.
Just one day before her passing, Anne was seen performing at an improv show at The Second City New York. According to sources, “Everyone said she was so great last night and so happy,” and another person confirmed that she “was in great spirits” during and after the show. A friend recalled, “Typical fun, outgoing Anne, having a blast.” It’s hard to imagine that the same woman who radiated such energy and joy the night before would be gone the very next day.
Only five days before her death, Anne shared a post on Instagram, showing her excitement after running into a local artist. “I ran into @greenladyofbrooklyn in my neighborhood today!! I’m not going to lie- 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!!! #ilovewhatido #luckygirl 💚💚💚.”
Anne’s influence on the culinary world cannot be overstated. Over the years, she helped countless chefs hone their skills and discover their culinary voices. She was a firm believer in “mise en place” — the practice of preparing ingredients ahead of time and cleaning as you go, ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly. She often shared, “I feel so lucky to be able to share my true passion in life with others.”
Anne made a lasting impact on television, hosting several beloved shows including Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, All-Star Best Thing I Ever Ate, and Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell. She also made memorable appearances on Iron Chef America. Beyond her culinary work, Anne was involved in charity, serving on the advisory board of the Garden of Dreams Foundation, acting as a celebrity ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and supporting City Harvest’s Food Council.
Anne is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, his son, Javier, as well as her mother, Marlene, her sister, Jane, and her brother, Ben.
Though Anne is no longer with us, her incredible legacy lives on. She will forever be remembered for her love of food, her boundless energy, and the love she gave to everyone who was lucky enough to know her.
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