what happened to chef anne burrell

Chef Anne Burrell, the beloved Food Network personality and host known for shows like "Worst Cooks in America," tragically died by suicide on June 17, 2025, at the age of 55. She was found unconscious and unresponsive in her Brooklyn apartment, surrounded by approximately 100 pills. The New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled her death a suicide, with the official cause being acute intoxication due to the combined effects of alcohol, amphetamines, and antihistamines (diphenhydramine and cetirizine). Her sudden passing was met with widespread condolences from colleagues and fans alike. The Food Network has since honored her legacy by airing curated episodes and her final season of "Worst Cooks in America," which premiered on July 28, 2025, as a tribute to her profound impact on the culinary and television worlds. Chef Gabe Bertaccini, her co-host on the final season, remarked on her authentic care and dedication to mentoring aspiring cooks. Anne Burrell was celebrated for her vibrant personality, culinary skills, and ability to empower and teach kitchen novices. Her unexpected death revealed an inner pain that was not publicly known, prompting a reflection on both her remarkable life and the challenges she faced privately. If anyone is struggling with similar feelings, resources like the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988) are available for support. This news marks a significant loss in the food entertainment community. Her career included being Mario Batali’s sous chef on "Iron Chef America," hosting her own show "Secrets of a Restaurant Chef," and passionately mentoring contestants on "Worst Cooks in America" for many years. She was much loved for her straightforward and lively character as well as her striking platinum hair and spirited nature. In summary, Chef Anne Burrell passed away by suicide in June 2025, leaving behind a powerful legacy of culinary education and heartfelt mentorship on television.