Sandra Lee Mourns the Loss of Anne Burrell: ‘Larger Than Life’ Culinary Star Dies at 55

The culinary world is in mourning after the sudden and tragic death of Anne Burrell, the beloved celebrity chef known for her fiery red hair, big personality, and unforgettable presence on the Food Network. Burrell, 55, passed away in her Brooklyn home, with news of her death breaking on Tuesday, June 17.

Among the many tributes pouring in from fans and fellow chefs alike, longtime friend and fellow television chef Sandra Lee offered a particularly heartfelt remembrance.

“Anne Burrell was smart. She was sweet. She was funny. She was larger than life. She lived it completely, unabashedly and uniquely,” Lee said in a statement to Us Weekly.

She went on to recall their first meeting in Atlantic City, where Burrell approached her with what she called her “girl gang.”

“She was so endearing, so so funny and delightful,” Lee added. “Anne was one of a kind. May she rest in glory — another culinary royalty in heaven guiding all of our recipes now. Love u always Anne — Sandy!”

A Sudden Loss, and a Life Well-Lived

While Burrell’s cause of death has not yet been officially disclosed, a 911 call reportedly indicated she went into cardiac arrest before passing. Her family released a statement describing her as a beloved wife, daughter, sister, stepmother, and friend.

“Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world,” the statement read. “Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”

She is survived by her mother Marlene, sister Jane, husband Stuart Claxton, and stepson Javier.

Just days before her death, Burrell appeared in high spirits, sharing photos from a private “One Night Only” dinner hosted by fellow chef Elizabeth Falkner at New York City’s Soho House.

“A delicious and delightful evening last night @sohohouse,” Burrell captioned the post. “SUUUUUUPER yummy with a great group of people… #theclaxtons #ilovewhatido #luckygirl.”

A Food Network Fixture and Fan Favorite

Anne Burrell first became a household name as a sous chef on Iron Chef America, where she showcased her culinary skill and magnetic stage presence. But it was her solo hosting gig on Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, which debuted in 2008, that truly established her as a Food Network star.

Over the years, she starred in a number of high-profile shows, including:

Secrets of a Restaurant Chef (9 seasons)

Worst Cooks in America (where she coached hopeless home cooks into real chefs)

Chopped

Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell

Her mix of tough love and humor, combined with her catchphrases and no-nonsense attitude in the kitchen, made her a fan favorite and a mentor to aspiring chefs around the world.

A Mentor, Friend, and Culinary Icon

Many of Burrell’s former colleagues and protégés have taken to social media to express their shock and sadness.

Fellow chefs called her “a culinary powerhouse,” “unapologetically authentic,” and “the kind of mentor who changed lives.” Fans are also mourning the loss of one of the most visible and vibrant personalities in food television, whose laughter, warmth, and sass defined an era.

Final Words and Lasting Legacy

While the exact circumstances of her death are still emerging, what remains unquestionable is the legacy Anne Burrell leaves behind. From teaching America how to make restaurant-quality meals at home, to inspiring countless women in the culinary industry, her influence is indelible.

As Sandra Lee so perfectly put it:

“Another culinary royalty in heaven guiding all of our recipes now.”

Anne Burrell may be gone, but her fiery passion, her bold flavors, and her unforgettable presence will remain part of kitchens and hearts everywhere.