Celebrity chef Anne Burrell died suddenly at age 55 after final improv show in New York
Anne Burrell, the vibrant celebrity chef known for her bold personality and television stardom, has died at age 55.
She passed away on Tuesday, at her home in Brooklyn, New York, according to a statement from her representatives.
Just the night before, Burrell had performed in an improv comedy show at The Second City New York, marking the finale of a course she had been taking. Attendees say she was in high spirits.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Everyone said she was so great last night and so happy,” a source told PEOPLE.
Another added, “She was in great spirits during and after the show — typical fun, outgoing Anne, having a blast.”
Her sudden passing has left family, friends, and fans stunned.
Burrell had shared her enthusiasm for the improv class journey on Instagram just over a week earlier.
She posted that she was “having an ABSOLUTE blast” and promoted the June 16 performance with photos of her classmates and a selfie at the venue.
She first revealed she was taking “Improv for Actors” back in March, writing: “Can I just say it is SO much fun and I am learning so SO much!!! It really helps me get out of my shell… as if I needed that!! #ilovewhatido #luckygirl.”
By late April, she had eagerly announced her return for a second term: “I’m THRILLED to be back!!”
Burrell’s career began after teaching at the Institute of Culinary Education in the early 2000s. She went on to appear on Iron Chef America, Chopped, Chef Wanted, and became a fan favourite on Worst Cooks in America. In 2025, she competed in House of Knives.
She was also a successful author, releasing two cookbooks: Cook Like a Rock Star, which became a New York Times bestseller in 2011, and Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower.
Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, his son Javier, her mother Marlene, her sister Jane and her children Isabella, Amelia and Nicolas, and her brother Ben.
The New York City Police Department confirmed officers were called to a Brooklyn address — matching Anne Burrell’s details — just before 8am following a report of “an unconscious and unresponsive 55-year-old female.”
Emergency medical services responded and “pronounced her dead at the scene,” according to the statement.
Burrell’s official cause of death is still pending, with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner set to conduct an autopsy.
In a statement, her family said: “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered. 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.”
