Anne Burrell, the vibrant Food Network star and host of Worst Cooks in America, passed away at age 55 on June 17, 2025, at her Brooklyn, New York, home, leaving fans and the culinary world in mourning. Known for her spiky blonde hair and infectious energy, Burrell’s sudden death has raised questions about the cause, which remains under investigation.
Emergency responders arrived at Anne Burrell’s Brooklyn residence on June 17, 2025, after receiving a 911 call that reported her as unresponsive with signs of cardiac arrest. Authorities confirmed that officers from the 76th Precinct responded to the call around 7:50 a.m., and emergency medical personnel officially declared her deceased on-site.
Anne Burrell, Food Network Star and 'Worst Cooks in America' Host, Dies at 55 https://t.co/3ChUBnk8SW
— People (@people) June 17, 2025“Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions worldwide,” her family said, expressing their grief.
Born September 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, New York, Burrell graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1996 and honed her skills at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. She worked at prestigious restaurants like Felidia and Savoy before joining Food Network in 2005 as a sous chef on Iron Chef America. Her Emmy-nominated show, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, ran from 2008 to 2012, and she became a fan favourite as co-host of Worst Cooks in America for 27 seasons, mentoring novice cooks with humour and expertise.
We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning. Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring. Our… pic.twitter.com/KABKH2SvkP
— Food Network (@FoodNetwork) June 17, 2025Burrell’s absence from the 28th season of Worst Cooks in America in 2025 puzzled fans. Responding to Instagram queries in January, she expressed uncertainty about her exclusion, saying, “Honestly, I don’t know.” Just days before her death, she shared a joyful Instagram post about meeting a local Brooklyn personality, ending with her signature hashtag, “#IlovewhatIdo.” Her final public act was an improv comedy performance on June 16, reflecting her vibrant spirit.
