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Food Network star Anne Burrell has died. She was 55. 

The host of Worst Cooks in America died at her home in Brooklyn, according to TMZ. Paramedics were called to her home on Tuesday morning to help a woman in need of medical assistance. Unfortunately, they were unable to revive her. An autopsy will be conducted. 

“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” Burrell’s family said in a statement shared with People. “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.”

Burrell is survived by her husband, Stuart Claxton, her stepson Javier, her mother Marlene, siblings Jane and Ben, and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to Worst Cooks in America, Burrell appeared on shows such as Beat Bobby Flay, The Best Thing I Ever Ate, Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell, Iron Chef America, and Secrets of a Restaurant Chef. She was also a frequent guest on talk and cooking shows, including The Drew Barrymore Show, Today, and The Talk. She studied at the Culinary Institute of America and worked in various New York City restaurants before her colleague Mario Batali asked her to participate in a pilot taping of Iron Chef America, kicking off her TV career.  

Food Network pays tribute to Anne Burrell 

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The Food Network responded to the news of Burrell’s sudden death on Instagram. 

“We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning,” read the statement. “Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring. Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends, and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”

Food Network stars and other notable figures shared their condolences, and their shock, in the comments. 

“Praying for her family and friends,” wrote Carson Daly. 

Andrew Zimmern of Bizarre Foods described Burrell’s death a “horrific and senseless tragedy.”Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard called the news “so sad.” 

Burrell’s final social media update showcased her vibrant nature and zest for life. 

Days before her death, the chef – who was known for her signature spiky blonde hair – enthusiastically posted on Instagram about encountering the Green Lady of Brooklyn, a neighborhood icon known for her all-green attire, including her hair. 

“I ran into @greenladyofbrooklyn in my neighborhood today!! I’m not going to lie- I have been keeping an eye out for her,” Burrell captioned a smiling photo of herself and the Green Lady, whose real name is Elizabeth Eaton Rosenthal. “I may or may not have followed her down the street for a minute. She is just lovely!!!”

Burrell was also stretching her creativity beyond the kitchen. On June 9, she posted about taking improv classes at the Second City Training Center in New York City. She invited her followers to stop by her end-of-session performance on June 16 – the day before her death. 

“Sooooooo… as I have mentioned I have been taking Improv classes @thesecondcitytc and having an ABSOLUTE blast!!!” she wrote. “My class and I are coming to the end of this term and we get to do an actual show!!! If anyone is interested in stopping by … please feel free!! We are a small but SUPER fun bunch.” 

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