The tragic passing of Food Network's beloved chef Anne Burrell has been officially deemed a suicide by the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner. The talented chef, aged 55, was discovered to have consumed a cocktail of substances, leading to her untimely demise.
Upon completing a thorough investigation, the medical examiner's office attributed the cause of death to "acute intoxication stemming from the synergistic effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine."
On June 17th, Burrell's family broke the heartbreaking news of her demise, which occurred in the comfort of her Brooklyn abode, where she was found unresponsive. In a poignant statement, the family reminisced, "Anne was a cherished wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend whose radiant smile illuminated every corner she graced. Her luminous spirit transcended those who knew her personally, touching the lives of millions worldwide. Though her physical presence is now absent, her warmth, zest for life, and boundless affection endure eternally."
She is survived by her devoted husband, Stuart Claxton, a Univision advertising executive whom she wed in October 2021 (with Rachael Ray serving as a bridesmaid); her cherished children, Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas; her stepson, Javier; her loving mother, Marlene; and her siblings, Jane and Ben.
Burrell left an indelible mark as the host of 27 seasons of the popular series "Worst Cooks in America," which premiered in 2010 alongside Beau MacMillan. Her culinary prowess was also showcased on various Food Network programs, including "Chopped," "Celebrity Food Fight," "Cutthroat Kitchen," "Cooks vs. Cons," "Food Network Star," "The Kitchen," "Beat Bobby Flay," "Wildcard Kitchen," and "House of Knives," where she fearlessly competed.
In tribute to Burrell following her passing five weeks ago, a Food Network spokesperson eulogized, "Anne was an extraordinary individual and a culinary genius who dedicated her life to teaching, competing, and tirelessly sharing the profound significance of food and the joy that a delightful meal can bring to one's life."
