Anne Burrell Update Given on Death as Tributes Pour In

The New York City Police Department (NYPD) has issued an update on Anne Burrell’s death. The Food Network star died at the age of 55 at her home in Brooklyn, New York.

No cause of death has been shared at this time.

Newsweek contacted the NYPD and Burrell’s representative for comment via email outside regular working hours.

The Context

Burrell graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1996 and went on to study in Italy at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. Following her return to the United States, she worked at Manhattan’s Savoy Restaurant and Felidia Ristorante. She later taught at the Institute of Culinary Education before transitioning to television.

The Cook Like a Rock Star author was a sous chef on Food Network’s Iron Chef America, and her show Secrets of a Restaurant Chef was Emmy-nominated. She’s perhaps best-known, though, as being the longtime host of Worst Cooks in America.

Anne Burrell Wine & Food Festival NYC — Anne Burrell poses during the Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival at the Chefs Club on October 10, 2019 in New York City.

Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images for NYCWFF

What To Know

Burrell was found “unconscious and unresponsive” at her New York City home, the NYPD said, per People.

Officers from the 76th Precinct responded at approximately 7:50 a.m. local time on Tuesday, where emergency medical services “pronounced her deceased on scene.”

The NYPD did not name Burrell in its report while it notified the victim’s family.

The Food Network released a statement via X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram on Tuesday: “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 thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”

What People Are Saying

Following news of Burrell’s death, celebrities and fellow Food Network stars paid tribute to the late chef.

Gigi Hadid, who appeared on Beat Bobby Flay in 2020 alongside Burrell, wrote via her Instagram Stories: “I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of the Great Anne Burrell. As a longtime fan, getting to share this day with her was a dream come true. Beat Bobby. Hang. Eat. I wish we could have done it again. She was awesome. Rest in Peace Legend.”

Worst Cooks in America co-host Robert Irvine penned a lengthy note on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram: “I am stunned and deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Anne Burrell.”

“Anne wasn’t just a fiery chef. She was a radiant spirit who lit up every room she entered. From the very beginning on Worst Cooks in America, our friendly rivalry was fueled by mutual respect: I’d risk bleaching my hair; she’d risk losing hers. An epic wager that epitomized her unbeatable spirit. It was a wager I ultimately lost, but I couldn’t imagine losing to a more fierce competitor.”

“Outside of Worst Cooks I came to know her as a generous and supportive colleague and an even better friend.”

“I’ll always remember her unwavering dedication, not just to food, but to lifting others up. She believed in nurturing culinary potential and celebrating small victories, whether in an amateur cook or on a charity fundraiser. That was Anne. Uncompromising in her standards, yet tender in her mentorship.”

Comedian Loni Love wrote separate messages on X and Instagram: “Anne Burrell’s passing has left me in shock and sorrow. She was a gifted chef, and an extraordinary person. Chef Anne was the same on and off camera. She would just check on me out the blue. I will miss her tremendously. My condolences to her husband, family, & fans. Rest Chef.”

Aarti Party host Aarti Sequeira posted individual messages on X and Instagram: “The first time I met Anne Burrell, she gave me tough love I didn’t want—but needed. She was bold, warm, and real. I still hear her in my kitchen: ‘Brown food tastes good!’ Anne, you’ll be missed. Thank you for teaching us all. #luckygirl”

Buddy Valastro shared a photo alongside Burrell on Instagram with the caption: “Anne, your passion, energy, and love for food lit up every kitchen. You were a true force and a beautiful soul. Rest in peace, Chef. We’ll miss you dearly.”

Chef Sandra Lee said on Instagram: “Oh Anne-you are so loved and you will be so missed. You were the next generation of light in the culinary Food Network world. We all adore you and will forever remember your quick wit, sassy drive, determined nature, and magical laughter. I hope you have so much fun in heavens kitchen. My heart is broken that you’re no longer here but I’m so grateful that we had such wonderful moments together. With all the truffles and caviar the universe can hold-all my love, Sandra.”