By Kingsley The host of Food Network’s Worst Cooks In America, Anne Burrell was 55.
By Matt Schimkowitz | June 17, 2025 | 6:44 PM
Anne Burrell has died. Known for her sky-high bleach-blonde hair and blunt culinary criticism on Food Network’s Worst Cooks In America, Burrell was a popular celebrity chef who broke through as a sous chef on Iron Chef America. Per People, her representatives confirmed Burrell died on June 17 at her home in Brooklyn. She was 55.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” her family said. “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.”
Burrell was a perfect fit for the personality-driven shows on Food Network. Rising to prominence alongside fellow spiky blond chef Guy Fieri, she made her Network debut as a sous chef on Iron Chef America before landing her own series, Secrets Of A Restaurant Chef, in 2008. The show allowed Burrell to showcase her culinary charisma as she taught viewers restaurant-industry techniques at home. It was nominated for a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Culinary Program in 2011.
In 2010, Burrell began hosting her most popular series, Worst Cooks In America. The show set good-natured, gentle ribbing against an intense “culinary bootcamp,” challenging self-proclaimed worst cooks to impress Burrell, who was known for her tough-love approach. She also appeared regularly on other Food Network programs, including Chopped, Cutthroat Kitchen, and Guy’s Grocery Games.
Burrell was born in Cazenovia, New York, on September 21, 1955. She graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and later studied at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners. Upon returning to the U.S., she worked in several prestigious kitchens and taught at the Culinary Institute. Her restaurant-world connections led her to Mario Batali, who recommended her for Iron Chef.
Burrell is survived by her husband, step-son, mother, sister, brother, nieces, and nephews.