On the eve of her departure, Anne Burrell radiated her infectious vitality with unwavering spirit. The beloved Food Network star, who tragically passed away in her Brooklyn home on June 17th, graced the stage of Second City with an impromptu performance the night before, confirmed by the Brooklyn comedy venue. Through an Instagram post accompanied by a heartfelt selfie of Burrell at the venue, Second City issued a statement mourning, "Our hearts are heavily laden with sorrow at the loss of our cherished friend and student, Anne Burrell. She will forever be cherished and remembered as a radiant beacon within our Second City New York Training Center community."
Continuing, the statement read, "Anne infused joy, daring, and an unyielding 'yes, and' attitude into everything she touched. Her enthusiasm was a force to be reckoned with, her presence an indelible mark. Our deepest condolences extend to Anne’s family and all who held her dear."
Details surrounding the final appearance of the host of Worst Cooks in America emerged following the New York Police Department’s clarification on the discovery of Burrell’s body the subsequent morning. In a statement to NBC News, the NYPD affirmed they were dispatched to an address in Brooklyn, matching Burrell’s personal details, shortly before 8:00 a.m., in response to a report concerning “an unconscious, unresponsive 55-year-old female.” Emergency services arrived and pronounced her deceased at the scene.
According to reports, Burrell’s cause of death awaits the conclusion of an autopsy by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Initially, Burrell’s passing was announced by her family, who revered her as "a devoted wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend." They shared in a statement with E!, "Her smile ignited every corner she entered. Anne’s radiance extended far beyond her circle of acquaintance, touching countless lives worldwide. Though her physical presence is no more, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love endure eternally."
Top Chef veteran Carla Hall penned, "Anne was an extraordinary chef and mentor. FIERCE! She will be sorely missed." Ming Tsai of East Meets West lamented, "This is overwhelmingly tragic. We have lost a gem." Meanwhile, Food Network Star contestant Chris Valdes expressed, "My heart aches at the loss of Chef Anne Burrell. A genuine culinary powerhouse—bold, fervent, and unforgettable. Her fiery passion, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for food ignited the spirits of countless individuals."
Once again, the culinary world mourns the loss of a luminous figure whose legacy will forever shine brightly.
