Anne Burrell’s cause of death revealed: Food Network star died by suicide

Food Network icon Anne Burrell, the spiky-haired powerhouse behind Worst Cooks in America died by suicide. The New York City medical examiner determined the cause of death, as cited by reports, to be acute intoxication caused due to a combination of diphenhydramine, cetirizine, ethanol, and amphetamine—essentially antihistamines, alcohol, and ADHD meds.

On June 17, Burrell was found unresponsive in the shower of her Brooklyn home. A 911 caller initially reported what looked like a cardiac arrest, and EMS arrived to pronounce her dead on the scene. Dozens of pills were found nearby.

Just a day earlier, she had performed in an improv show at Second City New York, completely in high spirits, according to sources as cited by reports. Friends said she was “typical fun, outgoing Anne,” and shock rippled through her inner circle when the news broke.

Anne had built a two-decade-plus legacy on television. She began her career cooking in top New York restaurants and graduated from the Culinary Institute of America. She made her TV debut as a sous-chef to Mario Batali on Iron Chef America, then went on to host popular shows like Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, Chef Wanted, Chopped, and of course Worst Cooks in America, where she taught kitchen novices how to cook like pros across 27 seasons.

She also authored two cookbooks—Cook Like a Rock Star and Own Your Kitchen—both landing on bestseller lists. Fans knew her for her energetic, down-to-earth teaching style that made home cooking feel accessible, even fun.
When news of her passing emerged, colleagues and fans around the world poured out heartfelt tributes. The Food Network released a statement calling her “a remarkable person and culinary talent” who brought joy, learning, and realness to screens and studios.

Burrell is survived by her husband Stuart Claxton, stepson Javier, her mother Marlene, and siblings Jane and Ben. Her final season of Worst Cooks in America is set to air posthumously on July 28, 2025.

Disclaimer:The information regarding Anne Burrell’s cause of death is based on official reports from the medical examiner and credible news sources. This article discusses suicide as determined by those findings. If you are suicidal or in emotional distress, consider using the helpline numbers. Tele MANAS is a comprehensive mental health care service provided by the Indian government. Toll free numbers: 14416, 18008914416