The food world is mourning the loss of one of television’s greats as the news is shared of Anne Burrell’s passing on June 17, 2025. Known for her bright, spiky hair that matched her equally iconic personality, the chef was only 55. Burrell is most notably recognized as the host of the show “Worst Cooks in America,” where she mentored aspiring chefs for over a decade. But there was more to Burrell than one show. So, how did she become such a Food Network icon?
Before gracing America’s televisions, Burrell was a student at the Culinary Institute of America, where she honed her skills and built upon her lifelong love of cooking. She particularly loved Italian cuisine, and even spent a few years studying and working in Italy. But she was also known to love a good fast food burger (In-N-Out’s iconic patties were her favorite). From there, Burrell made her first Food Network appearance not as a host, but as a contestant on “Iron Chef America.” Her larger-than-life personality won over the crowd and eventually landed her with her own show: “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef.” After that, Burrell made her debut as a co-host and mentor on “Worst Cooks in America” and was a part of every season, barring the most recent one, season 28. Her longevity with the Food Network shows consumers and cooks alike treasured her spirit and advice, making it no wonder she was a mainstay in the kitchen.
Remembering Anne Burrell and the legacy she left behind
While “Worst Cooks in America” was Anne Burrell’s main program on the Food Network, she appeared in other series, including “Chopped” and “Chef Wanted.” She was also a guest on “Beat Bobby Flay,” a competition series starring her fellow Food Network icon, Bobby Flay. But through all her television appearances, Burrell was known for her encouraging spirit, which can also be seen in her cookbooks: “Cook Like a Rockstar” and “Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower.”
Aside from being a television phenom, Burrell was known for her philanthropic spirit and contributions to the greater good. After winning the “Chopped: All Star Tournament” in 2015, Burrell donated her winnings to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, for which she was an ambassador. More recently, she was on the advisory board of the Garden of Dreams Foundation, which allowed her to share her passion for food and cooking. Burrell was clearly a giver in and out of the kitchen, and while she may be best known for quirky looks and an outgoing attitude, she became an icon by sharing her gifts and uplifting others alongside her.
