Introduction
Anne Burrell left fans wondering why she wasn’t on a new season of her Food Network show before her death at age 55.
When Worst Cooks in America Celebrity Addition: Heroes vs. Villains aired in January with stars Jeff Mauro and Antonia Lofaso as mentors, users took to Burrell’s Instagram to ask why she wasn’t there.
“Chef — how come you are not doing Worst Cooks this season. That is your show,” one fan wrote on her Instagram, to which Burrell replied, “Uuuuughhh…I know. And I don’t know. 🫤🤷🏼♀️❤️.”
In a separate January Instagram post, another fan commented on a photo of Burrell’s pasta. “Looks delicious. I miss you on worst cooks. I’m sitting out this season,” the user wrote. Burrell responded, “You and me both Lovely!!! ❤️.”
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Burrell had served as a host of the series since 2010, alongside rotating cohosts which included the likes of Rachael Ray, Bobby Flay and more. Burrell was previously introduced as a sous chef on Iron Chef America before appearing in Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, Chopped, Chef Wanted, Food Network Star and House of Knives, which premiered in March.
Anne Burrell Rick Kern/Getty Images
News broke on Tuesday, June 17, that Burrell died in her Brooklyn home.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” her family said in a statement obtained by People. “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.”
The Food Network star’s cause of death has yet to be revealed. She is survived by her mother, Marlene, and sister, Jane, along with husband Stuart Claxton and his son, Javier.
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Less than one week before her death, Burrell shared a series of photos in New York City celebrating Elizabeth Falkner’s event at Soho House.
“A delicious and delightful evening last night @sohohouse for @cheffalkner ‘s “One Night Only” dinner,” she wrote via Instagram on Thursday, June 12. “SUUUUUUPER yummy with a great group of people. Thank you Chef for the invite and deliciousness!! #theclaxtons #ilovewhatido #luckygirl.”
In March, Burrell shared a career update with her Instagram followers. “OK … sooooooo a little update into the ‘Anne Burrell’ world. I know I have been kinda quiet of late. BUT I am taking ‘Improv for Actors’ at @secondcitynyc!!!” she captioned an Instagram post. “Can I just say it is SO much fun and I am learning so SO much!!! It really helps me get out of my shell… as if I needed that!!”