Anne Burrell Through the Years: From Renowned Chef to Food Network Star

Anne Burrell got her start in the Italian cooking scene before rising to fame as a Food Network star. Burrell studied at the Culinary Institute of America and the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners in the Piedmont region in the late ‘90s. After completing her studies, Burrell remained in Italy to work in multiple restaurants. Following her time abroad, Burrell returned to the United States and worked in various, prestigious restaurants in New York City. In addition to restaurant life, Burrell also gave teaching a try which led to her connection to Mario Batali. The pair would go on to be friends and work together on Iron Chef America. After joining the world of Food Network, Burrell continued to appear in countless shows as a host, judge and more. She was best known for being the host of Worst Cooks in America. In June 2025, Burrell died at her home in Brooklyn, New York. She was 55. “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” her family said in a statement to Us Weekly. “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 remains eternal.” Keep scrolling for a look back on Burrell’s life through the years:

Burrell made her Food Network debut when Batali asked her to be his sous chef while competing on Iron Chef America. The duo appeared on the cooking competition for six seasons.

She teamed up with Guy Fieri for his Roadshow series. 

Burrell was tapped to cohost Worst Cooks in America alongside Beau MacMillan. The series followed the chefs as they took contestants through a culinary boot camp to help them become better cooks. MacMillan left the show after the first season. Burrell remained on the show until season 27. Throughout her time on Worst Cooks in America, Burell was joined by other cooking personalities, including Robert Irvine, Bobby Flay, Rachael Ray and more.

The chef published her first book, Cook Like a Rock Star. 

Burrell hosted her own Food Network series, Chef Wanted, which ran for three seasons. 

She released a second book, titled Own Your Kitchen. 

Burrell won the Chopped All-Stars charity tournament.

In addition to her Food Network gigs, Burrell opened her restaurant Phil & Anne's Good Time Lounge in Brooklyn. The eatery closed the following year. 

Burrell started dating Stuart Claxton.  

Claxton and Burrell tied the knot after three years of dating.

Burrell’s family confirmed that the chef died at age 55.

“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” the statement read. “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.”