Anne Burrell may have experienced cardiac arrest before her death, a spokesperson for the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) told Newsweek on Thursday. The Food Network star passed away on Tuesday at the age of 55 in her Brooklyn, New York home.
Burrell gained national attention as a sous chef on Iron Chef America and went on to host the Emmy-nominated Secrets of a Restaurant Chef. She also authored Cook Like a Rock Star and became a fan favorite as the longtime host of Worst Cooks in America, where she mentored amateur chefs alongside Robert Irvine.
At 7:50 a.m. Tuesday, a 911 call reported a possible “cardiac arrest” at 505 Court Street, according to an FDNY statement provided to Newsweek. The individual was pronounced “DOA [dead on arrival].”
A New York City Police Department spokesperson told Newsweek on Wednesday: “Officers responded to a 911 call of an aided female inside 505 Court Street, within the confines of the 76 Precinct. Upon arrival, officers observed a 55-year-old female unconscious and unresponsive. EMS responded and pronounced the female deceased at the scene.”
“The chief medical examiner will determine the cause of death and the investigation remains ongoing at this time,” the statement added. “The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending proper family notification.”
The Food Network issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter): “We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning. 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. Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
Robert Irvine, her Worst Cooks in America co-host, posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram: “I am stunned and deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Anne Burrell.
“Anne wasn’t just a fiery chef. She was a radiant spirit who lit up every room she entered. From the very beginning on Worst Cooks in America, our friendly rivalry was fueled by mutual respect: I’d risk bleaching my hair; she’d risk losing hers. An epic wager that epitomized her unbeatable spirit. It was a wager I ultimately lost, but I couldn’t imagine losing to a more fierce competitor.
“Outside of Worst Cooks, I came to know her as a generous and supportive colleague and an even better friend.
“I’ll always remember her unwavering dedication, not just to food, but to lifting others up. She believed in nurturing culinary potential and celebrating small victories, whether in an amateur cook or on a charity fundraiser. That was Anne. Uncompromising in her standards, yet tender in her mentorship.”
Today weather anchor Al Roker also posted to Instagram: “So very saddening to hear of Anne Burrell’s passing at 55. What a force of nature. A truly delightful human who was supportive of other chefs and a true delight to be around. Our hearts go out to her family and close friends.”
Michelle Obama responded beneath Roker’s post: “So saddened to hear about Anne’s passing. I’ll always be thankful for her support of Let’s Move, and for joining us at the White House Easter Egg Roll to inspire kids and families with her healthy recipes. She was such a warm and talented chef and my condolences go out to her loved ones.”
Model Gigi Hadid, who appeared alongside Burrell in a 2020 episode of Beat Bobby Flay, wrote on Instagram Stories: “I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of the Great Anne Burrell. As a longtime fan, getting to share this day with her was a dream come true. Beat Bobby. Hang. Eat. I wish we could have done it again. She was awesome. Rest in Peace Legend.”
Cake Boss star Buddy Valastro shared a photo with Burrell on Instagram: “Anne, your passion, energy, and love for food lit up every kitchen. You were a true force and a beautiful soul. Rest in peace, Chef. We’ll miss you dearly.”
Aarti Party host Aarti Sequeira shared a touching memory on Instagram: “The first time I met Anne Burrell, it was in the halls of Chelsea Market, during the New York Wine and Food Festival.”
“‘You’re doing great,’ she said, ‘but maybe don’t cry so much on camera!’ referring to my many instances of breaking down under the pressure of Food Network Star.”
“She was right, of course. I didn’t like it but she was right. Anne was a tough but invested teacher, who thought enough of you to tell you the truth without watering it down. I always appreciated that she cared enough about a newbie to the game to give it to her straight. Ever since, she always greeted me with warmth, joy and that trademark big laugh…Rest in peace, and prayers for your loved ones mourning the loss of your bright, shining presence.”
Chef Sandra Lee posted: “Oh Anne—you are so loved and you will be so missed. You were the next generation of light in the culinary Food Network world. We all adore you and will forever remember your quick wit, sassy drive, determined nature, and magical laughter. I hope you have so much fun in heaven’s kitchen. My heart is broken that you’re no longer here, but I’m so grateful that we had such wonderful moments together. With all the truffles and caviar the universe can hold—all my love, Sandra.”
Comedian Loni Love also shared her grief on X: “Anne Burrell’s passing has left me in shock and sorrow. She was a gifted chef, and an extraordinary person. Chef Anne was the same on and off camera. She would just check on me out the blue. I will miss her tremendously. My condolences to her husband, family, and fans. Rest Chef.”Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton; his son, Javier; her mother, Marlene; her sister, Jane; and her brother, Ben. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made public.
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