Food Network Star Anne Burrell’s Sudden Death Under Police Probe for Suspected Drug Overdose

Celebrity Chef Anne Burrell’s Death Investigated as Possible Overdose

Anne Burrell, the beloved Food Network star known for Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and Worst Cooks in America, was found dead at 55 in her Brooklyn apartment on Tuesday. Authorities are investigating her death as a possible drug overdose after she was discovered unconscious in her bathroom surrounded by approximately 100 pills, according to NYPD reports.

Her husband, Stuart Claxton, last saw her alive around 1 a.m. before finding her unresponsive six to seven hours later. Emergency responders attempted CPR but pronounced her dead at the scene. The medical examiner has completed an autopsy, but the official cause of death remains pending.

A Legacy of Light and Laughter
Burrell’s family described her as a “beloved wife, sister, and friend” whose “smile lit up every room.” The Food Network praised her as a “remarkable culinary talent” who inspired millions. Just hours before her death, Burrell performed at a Brooklyn comedy club, showcasing her newfound passion for improv. In a recent podcast with Tori Spelling, she humorously recounted taking acting classes alongside younger students, joking, “What’s this old lady doing here?”

[Image: Anne Burrell at a 2022 Food Network event]

A Life Full of Ambition
Burrell, who married Claxton in 2021, recently gushed about their “honeymoon phase” marriage in an April interview. She also playfully expressed interest in appearing on Meghan Markle’s Netflix cooking show, quipping, “I’d go to the opening of an envelope. Why not cook with Meghan?”

[Image: Burrell with husband Stuart Claxton]

Tributes Pour In
Celebrities mourned her sudden passing. Gigi Hadid, who appeared with Burrell on Beat Bobby Flay, shared a heartfelt tribute: “Getting to share this day with her was a dream come true… Rest in Peace, Legend.” Chef Carla Hall hailed her as an “incredible cook and teacher,” while friend Carson Kressley recalled their last conversation, posting a beach photo with the caption: “Good food, good friends, and laughter… That’s what I wish for you now.”

[Image: Burrell with Gigi Hadid on Beat Bobby Flay]

From Kitchen to Stardom
Burrell’s culinary journey began in childhood, inspired by her mother’s cooking and Julia Child. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, she honed her skills at NYC restaurants like Felidia before rising to fame on TV. For 28 seasons, she transformed kitchen novices on Worst Cooks in America and authored two cookbooks. Her final project, House of Knives, premiered in March 2024.

[Image: Burrell cooking at a Food Network event]

Burrell is survived by her husband, mother, siblings, and stepchildren. Her vibrant legacy—marked by humor, mentorship, and a love for food—continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

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