Celebrity chef and Food Network star Anne Burrell has died by suicide, five weeks after she was found unresponsive at her Brooklyn home. The beloved chef was 55 years old.
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Official Cause of Death Revealed by Medical Examiner
On June 17, 2025, Anne Burrell was discovered unconscious and unresponsive in the shower, surrounded by approximately 100 assorted pills, according to a police report cited by The New York Times.
The New York City medical examiner’s office has confirmed the official cause of death as:
“Acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine.”
These substances include antihistamines (diphenhydramine and cetirizine), ethanol (alcohol), and amphetamine, often used to treat ADHD.
Anne Burrell’s Final Moments
On June 18, a day after her passing, the NYPD confirmed that EMS responded to a 911 call at 7:50 a.m., reporting a suspected cardiac arrest. Paramedics arrived and pronounced her dead on the scene.
Burrell was found at her home in Brooklyn, New York, where she had been living with her family.
Family’s Statement: “Her Smile Lit Up Every Room”
Following the news of her death, Burrell’s family released an emotional statement via her representatives:
“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.”
Her family has declined to comment further at this time.
A Legacy on the Food Network: Worst Cooks in America and Beyond
Anne Burrell was a fan-favorite TV personality best known for hosting Worst Cooks in America, where she transformed struggling home cooks into confident culinary talents with her signature no-nonsense mentoring style.
Born on September 21, 1969, in Cazenovia, New York, Burrell discovered her love for food early in life, inspired by her mother’s cooking and television chef Julia Child. Over the years, she became a staple on the Food Network, admired for her fiery personality, vibrant hair, and passion for teaching.
Conclusion: Remembering Anne Burrell
Anne Burrell’s death is a profound loss to the culinary and entertainment worlds. She was more than just a TV chef — she was a mentor, inspiration, and beloved figure to millions of viewers and aspiring cooks.
As fans, colleagues, and friends mourn her passing, her contributions to food media and the joy she brought to screens across the globe will never be forgotten.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
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