Anne Burrell, the exuberant Food Network host whose infectious energy and signature spiked platinum hair made her a standout in food television, died Tuesday at her home in Brooklyn, according to a report from People Magazine. She was 55.
Her family confirmed her death in a statement to the publication, writing: “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered. 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.”
Burrell rose to prominence as the host of “Worst Cooks in America,” where she guided culinary novices with both humor and rigor. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, she first appeared on “Iron Chef America” before headlining her own Emmy-nominated show, “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,” in 2008. Over the years, she became a fixture on the Food Network, known for her bold teaching style and deep love of Italian cuisine.
Born in Cazenovia, N.Y., Burrell credited her mother’s home cooking and Julia Child as early influences. Before turning to the kitchen, she studied English and communication at Canisius College. She later trained at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners and worked under Lidia Bastianich at Felidia in New York.
She was also an author and philanthropist, publishing two cookbooks and serving with organizations including City Harvest and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, whom she married in 2021, and his son, Javier, as well as her mother, siblings and several nieces.
“I feel so lucky to be able to share my true passion in life with others,” Burrell often said. That passion made her one of the most memorable personalities in American food media.
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