The culinary world is grieving the unexpected loss of a beloved “Food Network” figure. The initial reports indicate that her passing occurred in New York City, with the details still being scrutinized.
The celebrated chef Anne Burrell, a major presence on food television, left us at 55. Her passing was publicized on June 17, 2025, following her being found unresponsive at her Brooklyn residence.
Anne Burrell gracing City Harvest’s 2025 Gala: Carnival at Cipriani 42nd Street on April 22, 2025, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Sources from TMZ say that emergency medical services rushed to Burrell’s home after being tipped off by the authorities early Tuesday morning. A spokesperson from the New York City Fire Department confirmed the 911 call mentioning that Burrell had suffered a cardiac arrest.
Despite the paramedics’ valiant efforts, she could not be revived and was declared deceased at the scene. The definitive cause of her death awaits confirmation, with a formal autopsy scheduled to uncover the particular reasons for her untimely passing.
Burrell carved out a laudable culinary career, revered for her culinary prowess and zest for cooking. She is most recognized for hosting “Worst Cooks in America,” a hit on the “Food Network,” where she nurtured novice chefs. Beyond this, she helmed “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef” and was featured on the “Iron Chef” series.
Having received her formal culinary education at the Culinary Institute of America, she graduated in 1996. Her early career also saw her as a culinary educator at Manhattan’s Institute of Culinary Education.
Anne was married to Stuart Claxton for over three years, becoming a stepmother to his son, Javier, from an earlier relationship. Their love story began after Anne exited a former engagement.
In 2012, Ted Allen, a fellow “Food Network” star, revealed Anne was a lesbian, surprising some who were unfamiliar with her private facets.
Anne’s representatives confirmed she was dating another chef, Koren Grieveson, for several years, a fact familiar to the culinary circuit. The pair got engaged and lived together.
Anne Burrell and Stuart Claxton at City Harvest’s 40th Anniversary Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street on April 25, 2023, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Discussing her workspace preferences, Anne cherished privacy while cooking, extending no welcome even to Grieveson in her kitchen.
After their separation, Anne ventured for love anew, finding her future fiancèe and husband on a dating platform, Bumble.
Chefs Koren Grieveson and Anne Burrell at Geoffrey and Margaret Zakarian’s Rosé Lunch at the Soho Beach House in Miami Beach, Florida. | Getty Images
Anne fondly recalled her first date with Claxton, marveling at how well they connected. Claxton was unaware of her celebrity chef status, something Anne found refreshing.
On that memorable first meeting, Claxton was enamored by Anne’s charm, not to be outdone by her elegant photos. Anne, equally impressed, felt a promising connection from their casual encounter.
Anne Burrell’s Husband and Her Mother’s Team-Up for Her Engagement
Anne Burrell at a book signing during the Grand Tasting at Pier 94 on October 13, 2019, in New York City. | Getty Images
Claxton posed the life-altering question while quarantined with Burrell in her hometown, Cazenovia, New York. With a wedding ring in hand, he sought her mother’s blessing, roping her in on the big ask.
Anne’s mother owned enchanting spaces where they prepared a lovely setting for a date night. The collaborative effort was kept secret until Claxton invited Anne for the romantic dinner amid family.
At dinner, Claxton spoke of their relationship’s past and future, musing wedding plans. Though Anne found this odd among family, it was all part of his proposal strategy, leading to a heartfelt “yes” from Anne.
Despite knowing they shared a unique connection, Anne hadn’t imagined ever marrying, having never wed before and setting her sights on a robust career.
Anne Burrell’s Dreamy Fairytale Wedding
Months later, Anne and her partner arranged a “magical fairy tale” wedding held at Windridge Estates Redbarn 20 in Cazenovia. It was a sparkling affair filled with loved ones.
Anne shone brightest in a Caroline Herrera gown, making her way down the aisle by horse and carriage, escorted by her bridesmaids.
Anne Burrell and Stuart Claxton at “The Loudest Voice” New York Premiere on June 24, 2019, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Her bridesmaids wore vintage-inspired orange dresses, while Claxton’s son, Javier, served as best man.
Forgoing a traditional honeymoon, Anne and Claxton
enjoyed the company of family instead. Claxton sported a Ralph Lauren tuxedo and Nikes, while Anne’s creative touch lent a whimsical feel to the day.
Anne Burrell at the Levi’s Store Times Square, February 11, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
The wedding menu took months to perfect, offering vegan options, pasta, and delicious short ribs, an epicurean delight.
Post-ceremony, Anne embraced her role as stepmother to Javier, creating a tight-knit family dynamic.
Anne Burrell’s Unique Honeymoon
Instead of a traditional trip, the couple spent their honeymoon in their revamped Brooklyn home. The haven offered the privacy they adored, complete with a stylish kitchen and cozy decor.
Their residence allowed Anne and Stuart quality time together, furnished with amenities that blended comfort with style, fully embraced for their unconventional honeymoon celebration.
Embracing her newbie marriage role, Burrell shared sweet glimpses of her life with Stuart, often showcasing their joy-filled moments together.
A lovely exchange saw Anne sharing endearing Valentine’s Day shots and captions, reflecting their tender bond.
Anne Burrell at the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival on Apr. 26, 2018 | Source: Getty Images
The “Food Network” celebrity cherished her marriage, frequently delighting fans with glimpses of her joyful world with Claxton.
