Anne Burrell, adored chef and Food Network on-camera personality, has died at the age of 55, according to a report from People.
The news was confirmed by representatives for Burrell, who said she passed away Tuesday morning, June 17, at her Brooklyn, New York home.
Anne was best known as the host of Food Network’s iconic Worst Cooks in America, where she helped transform kitchen disasters into competent home cooks throughout the show’s nearly 30 seasons.
Over the years, she appeared in many other Food Network shows, including Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, Chef Wanted, Chopped, Food Network Star, and Iron Chef America. She made her Food Network debut with Iron Chef America in 2005, where she served as one of Chef Mario Batali’s sous chefs (and continued on his team through his tenure).
Anne’s extensive culinary background and knack for “tough love” mentorship made her a standout in the world of food personalities; she studied at the Culinary Institute of America, trained in Italy, and worked in a number of well-regarded New York City restaurants.
Throughout her celebrated career, she authored two cookbooks — Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen.
She was also involved in several philanthropic efforts, including work with City Harvest and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Anne is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, his son Javier, her mother Marlene, her sister Jane, her brother Ben, and their children.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” her family said 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.”