Chef Anne Burrell Passes Away at 55

Renowned chef Anne Burrell died in her Brooklyn loft at the age of 55. Her family confirmed her passing on Tuesday, with authorities stating she was found unconscious in her shower by her husband, Stuart Claxton.

While the official cause of death has not been disclosed, reports suggest she may have suffered a cardiac arrest prior to her passing. Claxton last saw her alive at 1 a.m., and upon discovering her unresponsive, he called emergency services and performed CPR.

Burrell, who married Claxton in 2021, spent her final evening enjoying a lively improv show at The Second City in Brooklyn. Her family described her as a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend, noting that her radiant smile brightened every space she entered.

Throughout her career, Burrell gained a reputation for her engaging personality and signature culinary skills. She was particularly recognized for her Food Network series Worst Cooks in America, which she often praised as the “funnest show on TV.”

Chef Bobby Flay paid heartfelt tribute to Burrell, sharing on Instagram that the greatest gift she gave him was introducing him to Maine Coon Cats, including his pet Nacho. Flay dubbed her impact on his life as a lifelong gift. He also fondly remembered her hosting Worst Cooks in America, describing it as an entertaining experience where all co-hosts, including himself, enjoyed the ride with her.

Burrell was also known for posting photos of her beloved cats—particularly her Calico Maine Coons—and expressing her love for spending time with them at her Brooklyn home. Flay eulogized her as a “cat dad since forever,” sharing a photo of her cuddling her cats on Instagram.

Her family conveyed a message emphasizing her enduring legacy and the warmth she brought into the lives of those around her.