Anne Burrell had a prominent culinary and TV career. As one of the most renowned celebrity chefs, the Worst Cooks in America alum became famous for her wit and skills in the kitchen. But her life was cut short in June 2025 when she was found dead at home. While fans mourned her, they also wondered what could have led to her death. After all, Burrell hadn’t disclosed any prior health issues, so her passing shocked Food Network viewers.
The television network announced on Instagram that it was “deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away,” calling Burrell “a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring.”
Throughout her decades-long career, Burrell starred in numerous shows, including Iron Chef America, Worst Cooks in America, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, Chef Wanted, Chopped and Food Network Star. On top of her TV career, Burrell was also a philanthropist and a cookbook author, having published Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower.
Below, learn what we know so far about Burrell’s health.
What Happened to Anne Burrell?
Burrell was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn, New York, home on June 17, 2025. According to TMZ, Burrell’s husband, Stuart Claxton, was the one who found her in the shower just hours after seeing her alive.
How Did Anne Burrell Die?
Burrell’s cause of death was officially ruled a suicide by acute intoxication, according to the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The fatal combination included diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine.
Before the autopsy results were released, several outlets reported that a large number of pills were found near her body at the scene.
According to TMZ, a spokesperson for the New York City Fire Department said the incident was initially reported as a cardiac arrest. Law enforcement sources later told the outlet that a “large quantity” of unknown pills was discovered near Burrell when her husband, Claxton, found her unresponsive in the shower.
A police report obtained by The New York Times confirmed that Burrell was “discovered in the shower unconscious and unresponsive, surrounded by approximately 100 assorted pills.” At the time, the NYPD was investigating the case as a possible drug overdose.
Eight months after her death, a report from the NYPD confirmed that a “suicidal note” was left in the primary bedroom of Burrell’s Brooklyn home, according to People.
Anne Burrell’s Health
Burrell never publicly revealed any major health setbacks before she died, but TMZ reported that EMS personnel were called in to Burrell’s Brooklyn home over a reported cardiac arrest.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
