Celebrity chef and longtime Food Network host Anne Burrell died by suicide, according to a ruling from the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The 55-year-old was found dead in her Brooklyn apartment on June 17.
The official cause of death was listed as acute intoxication from the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine. The substances include alcohol, prescription amphetamines, and two common over-the-counter antihistamines. Emergency responders pronounced Burrell dead at the scene after being called to her residence that morning.
According to law enforcement officials familiar with the case, Burrell was discovered unresponsive in the shower alongside numerous pills, indicating a suspected overdose. The New York Police Department had been investigating the case as a possible suicide prior to the official ruling.
Burrell was widely recognized for her role as co-host of “Worst Cooks in America,” a competition series aimed at teaching kitchen novices basic culinary skills. Known for her vibrant personality and signature platinum-blonde hair, Burrell became a staple on the Food Network over the past two decades.
In January, Burrell did not return to co-host the latest season of “Worst Cooks in America,” though no reason was given publicly. After her passing, the network confirmed it would air her final season, co-hosted with chef Gabe Bertaccini.
Born on Sept. 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, New York, Burrell first appeared on television in 2005 as a sous chef on “Iron Chef America” before launching her own Emmy-nominated series, “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,” in 2008.
Her passion for cooking was inspired by her family and early television food icons. After earning a degree in English and communications from Canisius College, she graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1996. Burrell went on to teach at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City before transitioning fully into television.
In addition to her television work, Burrell authored two cookbooks and appeared on numerous Food Network programs, including “Chopped,” “Chef Wanted,” and “Food Network Star.” Her most recent project, “House of Knives,” premiered in March 2025.
She is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, whom she married in 2021, along with his son, Javier; her mother, Marlene; her siblings; and several stepchildren.
“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,” Food Network said in a statement following Burrell’s death. “Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends, and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
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