Anne Burrell, the Food Network chef best known for hosting “Worst Cooks in America,” died in 2025 at the age of 55.

Quick Scoop: What Happened

  • Anne Burrell was found “unconscious and unresponsive” at her home in Brooklyn, New York, on June 17, 2025, and was pronounced dead at the scene.
  • The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner later determined that she died by suicide, with acute intoxication cited as a contributing factor.
  • She was 55 years old and still actively working in television at the time of her death.

Because this involves suicide, it’s important to note that support is available in many countries (for example, in the U.S. you can call or text 988 for help).

Her Final Months and Career Status

  • Shortly before her death, Burrell remained a prominent Food Network personality, appearing on shows such as “Worst Cooks in America” and competing on “House of Knives” in 2025.
  • A new season of “Worst Cooks in America” featuring her final appearance as a mentor was scheduled to premiere on July 28, 2025, with weekly episodes airing in her honor.
  • Colleagues and the network described the show as a passion project for her and said the season would include tributes to her impact and teaching style.

Legacy and How People Reacted

  • Food Network issued a statement calling her a remarkable talent who brought joy through food and teaching, and sent condolences to her family, friends and fans.
  • Fellow TV chefs and friends shared emotional tributes online, recalling her big personality, generosity, and the way she championed nervous home cooks.
  • Fans on social media and forums have continued to revisit her shows, interviews and recipes, often describing her as an inspiring, approachable teacher who made them feel more confident in the kitchen.

Brief Bio Snapshot

  • Born September 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, New York, she studied at the Culinary Institute of America and trained further in Italy.
  • She worked in respected New York kitchens, including under Lidia Bastianich and later leading the kitchen at Savoy in SoHo.
  • She became a Food Network staple through “Iron Chef America,” “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,” “Chopped,” “Chef Wanted,” “Food Network Star,” and “Worst Cooks in America,” and authored the bestselling cookbook “Cook Like a Rock Star.”

Note on sensitive topics

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, many countries have 24/7 crisis lines and text services (for example, 988 in the U.S.) where you can reach trained counselors for free, confidential support.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.