The Food Network community is reeling after learning the news of Anne Burrell's death. The chef and TV star passed away on June 17, according to a statement released by her family. Her family shared, "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."
As Anne's friends and family are grieving their loss, they're sharing stories of the beloved star. Fellow Food Network star Rachael Ray had a close relationship with Anne and shared a heartfelt message, along with photos of the two together.
Rachael wrote, "The news about Anne has truly shaken us. [My husband] John and I are heartbroken. I can’t quite believe it — such a strong, vibrant, fearless woman, so full of life and love, could be gone so soon."
Her post continued, "Anne was a rockstar! I came to know her well through multiple seasons of Worst Cooks on Food Network, and she became so much more than a colleague."
Rachael served as a bridesmaid in Anne's 2021 wedding to Stuart Claxton. She shared, "Anne honored me by asking me to be her bridesmaid, something I’d only done once before for my sister. Despite being surrounded by incredible chefs, she never once made me feel self-conscious about not being one — she always treated me as one of the gang. When we hosted Worst Cooks together, we had the most incredible laughs. She even cooked for me and my guests at my wedding anniversary in Italy."
The TV host shared, "I’ll never forget walking into our dressing rooms at Food Network studios early in the morning and hearing her blasting the song of the moment down the hall. Anne had great taste in music and in life — she was a force in the kitchen, in any room, in every life she touched. I’ll miss her friendship deeply. Everyone whose life she touched will miss her. Sending love to Stuart and everyone who knew and loved Anne. We’ve lost someone truly special."
We're sending our hearts out to Rachael and all of Anne's friends, family, and fans during this difficult time.
Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers pop culture news including country music, Yellowstone, and all things HGTV, plus gift guides and product reviews. She has been with Country Living for more than 11 years. Before that, she worked for Southern Living. The Indiana University grad also stitches up the cross-stitch pattern for every issue of the magazine.
