Food Network star Anne Burrell dies, aged 55

Food Network star Anne Burrell has died at the age of 55, as tributes pour in for the chef.

Police confirmed Burrell was found unconscious at her home in Brooklyn, New York, yesterday (17 June).

Her family issued a statement paying tribute to the 'beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend', adding: “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.”

Speaking to Page Six, a New York Police Department spokesperson said the TV personality was discovered yesterday morning at her Brooklyn apartment, and was later pronounced dead when emergency services arrived.

Burrell's cause of death has not been confirmed.

The well-known TV personality had graduated from Canisius College in Buffalo with a degree in English and Communications, before going on to enroll at the esteemed Culinary Institute of America.

After spending time cooking in restaurants, in the mid-2000s she launched her TV career that would eventually span decades.

The star was arguably known for hosting Food Network series Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and co-hosting Worst Cooks in America.

She also served as one of Mario Batali's sous chefs in Iron Chef America, and featured on a number of other shows including The Best Thing I Ever Ate.

A Food Network spokesperson commented on the ‘tremendous loss’, saying in a statement: "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."

Burrell was married to Stuart Claxton, having tied the knot in October 2021.

Burrell with husband Stuart Claxton (Instagram/@chefanneburrell)

Since the news of her death, tributes have come pouring in from the food community, with fellow Food Network star Robert Irvine writing 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.”

He added: "Rest in peace, Chef. Your legacy as a champion of food, kindness, and empowerment will continue to inspire. Thank you for every lesson, every challenge, and every glorious moment. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten."

Gigi Hadid, who worked alongside Burrell on Beat Bobby Flay, said: "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."