Anne Burrell was found by husband after suspected cardiac arrest
Beloved celebrity chef Anne Burrell tragically passed away at the age of 55, leaving fans and the culinary world in shock. Just hours before her sudden death on June 17, 2025, Anne had been vibrant and full of life, performing in an improv comedy showcase in Brooklyn. Attendees said she was joyful, animated, and her usual energetic self—there was no hint of what would unfold the next morning.
The devastating discovery was made by her husband, Stuart Claxton. According to law enforcement sources, Stuart last saw Anne around 1 a.m. When he woke later that morning, he found her unresponsive on the bathroom floor. Emergency responders arrived following a 7:50 a.m. call about a suspected cardiac arrest. Despite CPR instructions given over the phone, Anne had already passed by the time help arrived.
An autopsy is pending, but early reports suggest a sudden cardiac event was the cause of death. The news has left a gaping hole in the hearts of her loved ones and the millions she inspired through her work.
Anne’s family released a heartfelt statement, remembering her not just as a chef and TV personality, but as a cherished wife, sister, daughter, and stepmother. “Her smile lit up every room she entered. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal,” the message read.
Born in Cazenovia, New York, on September 21, 1969, Anne developed her passion for cooking early in life, inspired by her mother and by watching Julia Child. That passion led her to the Culinary Institute of America, where she graduated in 1996. Her career took off from there, eventually making her a familiar face on television, especially on Worst Cooks in America, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, and Iron Chef America.
Anne was known for her bold style and even bolder personality. She made cooking feel accessible and fun, especially for beginners. Her advice to aspiring home chefs was simple but wise: “Don’t just wing it. Find a recipe, read several, and pick the one you feel comfortable with. Read it from beginning to end before you start.”
Her mentorship on Worst Cooks in America made her a fan favorite. She didn’t just teach cooking—she built confidence, encouraged resilience, and reminded her students that failure was part of learning.
Anne found personal joy in her relationship with Stuart Claxton, whom she met on Bumble in 2018. They got engaged during the 2020 lockdown and married in 2021. In interviews, Anne often described married life as an adventure. “I love being married,” she told People in 2023. “It’s being together all the time and growing together.” Stuart echoed the sentiment: “It’s been wonderful.”
Their life together in a newly renovated Brooklyn apartment was a source of pride and happiness. Anne loved creating a home filled with warmth and personality.
Anne’s passing leaves behind not just a legacy of great food and memorable television moments, but also a legacy of compassion, joy, and authenticity. Her ability to connect with people—through the screen or across the table—was her true gift.
She reminded us that the kitchen could be a place of courage, laughter, and second chances. Though she’s gone, the mark she left on the culinary world and on our hearts remains.
Rest in peace, Anne Burrell. Your light continues to shine through the lives you touched.