How Worst Cooks in America Paid Tribute to Anne Burrell After Death
Content warning: This story discusses suicide.
Worst Cooks in America is honoring its host.
One month after Anne Burrell died by suicide at age 55, the Food Network show remembered the late chef with a tribute during the premiere of its 29th season, which also marks the last installment in which Burrell will appear as a mentor for the series.
At the end of the July 28 episode, the screen showed a smiling photo of Burrell with the message, "In Memoriam." It was followed by a note reading, "If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline."
And the final message won't be the only way Burrell will be honored throughout the cooking show's season. Three days before the episode's premiere, the Food Network confirmed to People that the TV personality—who in addition to hosting Worst Cooks in America, appeared on series including Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and The Next Iron Chef—would receive a special tribute "each week."
“Anne Burrell was a one-of-a-kind talent whose loss is being deeply felt by family, friends and fans,” Head of Content, Food, Warner Bros. Discovery Betsy Ayala shared in a June 23 press release. “With these special programming events, we hope to honor Anne and celebrate her impact on Food Network and beyond, and to offer fans a way to remember her passion and culinary prowess that ran through everything she did.”
Burrell was pronounced dead in her New York City apartment on June 17 after police responded to a call at Burrell’s home over reports of an “unconscious and unresponsive 55-year-old female” and a possible cardiac arrest.
One month later, the New York City medical examiner's office confirmed to NBC News that she died by suicide.
Since her tragic passing, members of Burrell's Food Network circle, as well as her loved ones, have reflected on the impact she's had on her field of work and in her personal life.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend—her smile lit up every room she entered,” her family—including husband Stuart Claxton, stepson Javier, mother Marlene and sister Jane—shared with E! News in a statement. “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.”
Meanwhile, Gigi Hadid—who teamed up with the chef during a 2023 episode of Beat Bobby Flay—emphasized what a pleasure Burrell was to work with.
“I wish we could have done it all again," she said of their joint TV appearance in an Instagram Story. "She was awesome. Rest in Peace Legend.”
(E! and NBC News are part of the NBCUniversal family.)
For more on Burrell’s life, keep reading.
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