Celebrity chef Anne Burrell, known for her work on the Food Network, passed away at 55. Authorities confirmed her death was a suicide caused by a combination of drugs and alcohol. Food Network
The cause of death for celebrity chef Anne Burrell has been confirmed, five weeks after she passed away. Officials said she died by suicide. The medical examiner stated the cause as "acute intoxication" from a mix of antihistamines (diphenhydramine and cetirizine), alcohol (ethanol), and amphetamine. These substances are often used for allergies, alcohol use, and ADHD treatment.
Found at Home
Burrell was found unconscious in her shower on June 17. She was surrounded by a large number of pills, around 100, according to police documents. Emergency medical teams arrived quickly but declared her dead at the scene.
The morning of her death, someone called 911 at 7:50 a.m. to report a possible heart issue. However, it was later confirmed she had died from drug and alcohol overdose. Her family has chosen not to speak publicly about her death.
A Beloved TV Star
Anne Burrell was a well-known face on cooking television. She gained popularity through the show Worst Cooks in America, where she helped beginners learn how to cook. Her energy, humor, and kindness made her a fan favorite.
Her family shared a heartfelt statement:
"Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered. 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."
Early Life and Career
Anne was born on September 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, New York. She fell in love with cooking at a young age, inspired by her mother’s meals and TV chef Julia Child.
She studied English and Communication in college before shifting to cooking. She graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1996. Later, she taught at the Institute of Culinary Education and moved into television.
She started on Iron Chef America as a sous chef. In 2008, she got her own show Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, which aired for nine seasons. Over the years, she also appeared on Chopped, Chef Wanted, Food Network Star, and more. In March 2025, she appeared in a new show House of Knives.
Personal Life and Final Days
Anne met her husband Stuart Claxton in 2018. They married in October 2021. She became a stepmother to his son, Javier.
Just one day before her death, Anne performed with an improv group in Brooklyn. One of her castmates said she seemed happy and full of energy during the show.
Anne also wrote two popular cookbooks. Her first, Cook Like a Rock Star, became a bestseller. Her second, Own Your Kitchen, came out in 2013.
She leaves behind her husband Stuart, his son Javier, her mother Marlene, her sister Jane, her brother Ben, and three children: Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas.
