Why Anne Burrell Meant So Much to Home Cooks and Celebs Alike

The culinary world is reeling after the sudden loss of one of its brightest stars. Anne Burrell — the spunky, spiky-haired chef known for her no-nonsense coaching on Worst Cooks in America — has passed away at the age of 55.

She died Tuesday morning at her home in Brooklyn, New York, where first responders found her unresponsive. Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of death is still pending an official autopsy.

Anne wasn’t just a TV personality — she was a force. Her fiery personality, signature look, and genuine passion for teaching made her a household name. Whether she was guiding kitchen rookies through culinary chaos or dishing out tough love on Chopped and Chef Wanted, Anne’s presence on screen was unforgettable.

Gigi Hadid and Robert Irvine Mourn Death of Chef Anne Burrell

Tributes are flooding in from fans and fellow stars. Supermodel Gigi Hadid, who once teamed up with Burrell on Beat Bobby Flay, posted a heartfelt message calling the day they spent together “a dream come true.” Robert Irvine, her longtime Food Network colleague, praised her as a “radiant spirit” who brought joy to everyone she met — and teased that he once lost a hair dye bet to her.

Even off camera, Anne was busy inspiring others. She published two cookbooks — Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen — both aimed at empowering everyday cooks. She was a true mentor, and many remember her not just as a chef, but as a champion of kindness, joy, and growth.

Born in upstate New York, Anne got her start the old-fashioned way: learning from her mom’s home-cooked meals and idolizing Julia Child. After earning a degree in English and Communications, she followed her heart to the Culinary Institute of America and eventually made her mark in some of NYC’s top restaurants before jumping into TV.

Anne’s legacy goes beyond the kitchen. She brought millions of people joy, laughter, and the courage to crack an egg (or totally botch a soufflé) without fear. Fans are still posting emotional comments on her most recent Instagram photo — many stunned, many in tears, and all full of love.

Anne Burrell’s Final Post Revealed

She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, and a legion of fans who will always remember her zest for life, her unmatched talent, and her ability to make anyone believe they could cook like a rock star.

Anne Burrell’s final post on Istagram is a picture with Brooklyn icon The Green Lady wich was posted a few days before her death. In it, the popular figures were all smiles.

Some of her supporters are left with a few unanswered questions including one about her absence on a top cooking show.

Why Did Chef Anne Burrell Miss Season 28 of Worst Cooks in America?

Fans of Food Network were already scratching their heads when longtime Worst Cooks in America host Anne Burrell didn’t appear on the show’s 28th season — and now, the culinary world is in mourning after news broke that the beloved chef died.

Anne had co-hosted the hit series since 2010. So when Season 28 kicked off without her earlier this year — replaced by chefs Jeff Mauro and Antonia Lofaso — viewers were quick to flood her Instagram asking why she was missing.

“Why aren’t you in Worst Cooks? It’s not the same,” one fan commented. Anne replied with a cryptic, “Honestly I don’t know. 🤷🏼‍♀️😑❤️.” When another fan pleaded for her return, she sweetly said, “I will SO try.”

Neither Burrell nor the Food Network ever explained her absence, and now, tragically, there won’t be a comeback.

Food Network Pays Tribute to Chef Anne Burrell

Food Network echoed that sentiment in their tribute, calling her “a remarkable person and culinary talent” who brought joy to people through her love of food.

From her fiery kitchen presence to her kindhearted connection with fans, Anne Burrell made an unforgettable mark — and her absence, both on screen and in life, is deeply felt.

Rest easy, Chef Anne. Heaven just got a whole lot tastier.