by The culinary world is mourning the loss of Anne Burrell, the beloved Food Network star and longtime co-host of Worst Cooks in America. Burrell died on June 17, 2025, at the age of 55, in her Brooklyn home.
The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed on Thursday that her death was ruled a suicide, caused by acute intoxication from the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine.
A Tragic Combination
The medical examiner’s report revealed a mix of both over-the-counter and prescription substances.
- Diphenhydramine and Cetirizine, commonly used antihistamines, help relieve allergy symptoms.
- Ethanol, found in alcohol, remains the world’s most widely consumed intoxicant.
- Amphetamine, often prescribed for ADHD, can have serious and unpredictable interactions when combined with alcohol or other medications.
Individually, each of these substances may be safe under medical guidance. Taken together, however, they created a toxic combination that proved fatal.
A Life of Culinary Passion
Born on September 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, New York, Anne Burrell developed an early love for cooking, inspired by her mother’s meals and culinary trailblazer Julia Child. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in 1996, she refined her craft at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners, apprenticing across Italy and embracing a lifelong passion for Italian cuisine.
Her return to New York saw her working alongside culinary icon Lidia Bastianich before stepping into a leadership role at Savoy in SoHo, where she became known for Mediterranean-inspired cooking over open wood fire. She later joined the Institute of Culinary Education as a teacher, shaping the next generation of chefs.
Television Stardom
Burrell’s television career began as a sous chef on Iron Chef America, where her talent and larger-than-life personality quickly made her a fan favorite. She went on to host her own Emmy-nominated series, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, which ran for nine seasons.
Over the years, she became a central figure at Food Network, appearing on shows such as Chopped, Chef Wanted, Food Network Star, and, most recently, competing in House of Knives (2025).
Her greatest legacy, however, may be as co-host of Worst Cooks in America, where she guided amateur chefs with humor, patience, and tough love. The new season—featuring her final appearance as mentor—premieres on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 9 p.m. ET on Food Network, streaming the next day on HBO Max.
Burrell was also a successful author, penning two cookbooks, including the New York Times bestseller Cook Like a Rock Star.
Personal Life and Tributes
Anne Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, whom she married in 2021; his son, Javier; her mother, Marlene; her sister, Jane, and Jane’s children, Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas; as well as her brother, Ben.
Tributes have poured in from across the food world. Fellow chefs Tyler Florence, Alex Guarnaschelli, and Elizabeth Falkner shared heartfelt messages, remembering Burrell for her boundless energy, sharp wit, and unmatched passion for food.
A Legacy Beyond the Kitchen
Burrell’s career spanned restaurants, classrooms, and television screens, but what endeared her most was her ability to connect. She brought joy, confidence, and accessibility to home cooks, while inspiring professionals with her culinary precision.
Her sudden passing has left a profound void in the culinary community, but her influence will endure through her work, her recipes, and the many chefs she mentored.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
If you or someone close to you is struggling with thoughts of suicide, know that help is available. In the United States, dial or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. If outside the U.S., please contact your local crisis helpline for immediate support.
