How Worst Cooks in America Paid Tribute to Anne Burrell After Death

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Content warning: This story discusses suicide.

Worst Cooks in America is honoring its host.

Approximately one month following the tragic suicide of Anne Burrell at age 55, the Food Network honored her memory with a touching tribute during the debut of its 29th season. This season finale also serves as the last appearance of Burrell in her role as mentor for the show.

Towards the close of the July 28 broadcast, a joyful picture of Burrell appeared along with the words, “In Memory Of”. Subsequently, a message was displayed: “If you or someone you care for is experiencing emotional distress or in crisis, assistance is at hand. Dial or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

As an ardent fan, I can’t contain my excitement as I share this fantastic news! The Food Network has confirmed that the one and only, Chef Burrell, whose exceptional talent graced shows like “Worst Cooks in America,” “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,” and “The Next Iron Chef,” will be honored every week throughout the season. This tribute is set to start three days before the premiere of the upcoming episode! I can hardly wait to see what they have in store for this culinary legend.

Betsy Ayala, Head of Content for Food at Warner Bros. Discovery, expressed in a June 23 press release that the unique talent of Anne Burrell is greatly missed by her family, friends, and admirers. In an effort to pay tribute to Anne and acknowledge her influence on Food Network and beyond, we are planning special programming events. These events aim to commemorate her memory and showcase her passion for cooking that was evident in all her work.

On June 17, authorities declared the death of Burrell in her New York City apartment following a call about an apparently unconscious and unresponsive 55-year-old woman, as well as a suspected cardiac arrest at her residence.

Exactly one month ago, it was officially verified by the NYC Medical Examiner’s Office to NBC News that her death was a result of suicide.

After her sad demise, people from Burrell’s Food Network community, along with her family and friends, have been reminiscing about the significant influence she left in her professional world and personal life.

Anne was adored as a wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend; her presence brightened every space she stepped into, according to her family – consisting of husband Stuart Claxton, stepson Javier, mother Marlene, and sister Jane – who spoke to TopMob News. Anne’s radiance reached far beyond those close to her, touching countless individuals worldwide. Although she is now gone, the warmth, vitality, and everlasting love she shared continue to endure.

During a 2023 episode of Beat Bobby Flay, Gigi Hadid, who collaborated with the chef, expressed how enjoyable it was to work alongside Burrell.

She expressed a desire for another chance to relive their shared TV experience, saying, “If only we could do it all over again!” She praised the person, calling them amazing, and paid tribute with the words, “Rest in peace, legend.

For more on Burrell’s life, keep reading. 

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2025-07-29 06:17