RIP

Police say Chef Anne Burrell left a note before her tragic death


Burrell died by suicide over the summer last year


Food Network chef and icon Anne Burrell dies at 55© Getty Images for NYCWFF
Maria LoretoSenior Writer
FEBRUARY 18, 2026 6:21 PM EST

Details regarding the death of Chef Anne Burrell are being revealed. Burrell, the noted chef who starred in numerous Food Network shows, died last June at the age of 55. She died by suicide, leaving the entertainment and culinary world in shock. 

 Anne Burrell -- (Photo by: Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via Getty Images)© Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via G
Anne Burrell's death was reported on June of last year

According to the New York Police Department, a "suicidal note" was found in Burrell's bedroom, in her home in New York. Investigators also found suicidal entries in her journal, which was also found in her bedroom. 

Stuart Claxton, Burrell's husband, shared with the police that Burrell had no history of suicide attempts. He also said that she didn't display "any signs that she would do something like this."

The investigation revealed that he found her body, surrounded by different pills. Claxton tried to wake her up and then called 911.

 Chef Anne Burrell poses during the Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One - Dinner with Anne Burrell and Marc Murphy part of the Bank of America Dinner Series at Chefs Club on October 10, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images for NYCWFF)© Getty Images for NYCWFF
According to the police, Burrell left a suicidal note in her bedroom

More details about Burrell's life and career

Burrell's death was followed by many tributes and statements from the people who admired her.

"Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered," said her family 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."

Friends and celebrities like Aaron Sanchez and Gigi Hadid also shared some tributes. "Her spirit, her fire, her talent, her leadership, her laugh—unforgettable. I’ll carry her memory with me always," wrote Sanchez on Instagram. The two collaborated on numerous programs together.

Chef Aaron Sanchez shared a moving tribute to his friend© Daniel Zuchnik
Chef Aaron Sanchez shared a moving tribute to his friend

"I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of the Great Anne Burrell," wrote Hadid on social media. "As a longtime fan, getting to share this day with her was a dream come true."

Over the years, Burrell starred in numerous Food Network shows, including "Worst Cooks in America," where she served as the host for 27 of the show's 28 seasons, "Chopped," and "Food Network Star." 

Burrell is survived by her husband Claxton, whom she married in 2018, and his son, Javier. She's also survived by other members of her family, including her mother, Marlene, her brother Ben, her sister Jane, and Jane's kids: Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas.

Burrell was one of the most popular figures in the Food Network© Gustavo Caballero
Burrell was one of the most famous figures in the Food Network

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