New information has surfaced regarding the unfortunate passing of former Food Network personality Anne Burrell.
The 55-year-old chef died on Tuesday, June 17, in her New York home—six months after a potential dispute between her and the producers of her popular show “Worst Cooks in America” came to light.
In January, the Food Network aired its 28th season of the reality show, but it did not feature Burrell. She addressed a fan inquiry on January 10 about her absence by stating: “Honestly I don’t know.”
According to documents obtained by The New York Times, the New York City Police Department suspects that her death might have been due to a ‘drug overdose’.
The report noted: “[Burrell was] discovered in the shower unconscious and unresponsive surrounded by approximately (100) assorted pills.”
When paramedics arrived at her residence, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
A spokesperson for the medical examiner’s office indicated that an autopsy had been conducted, but the results and cause of death remain pending.
In the aftermath of her death, Burrell’s family shared an emotional statement to announce her passing.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” the statement expressed.
“Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world,” her family further shared. “Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”
Just prior to her demise, Burrell posted a cheerful photo on Instagram with the New York icon known as ‘The Green Lady of Brooklyn’.
This once joyful post has since been flooded with tributes honoring the late television star.
Burrell is survived by her children Isabella, Amelia, Nicolas, her husband Stuart Claxton, and her stepson Javier.
It was Claxton who found Burrell in their New York home. Allegedly, he last saw his wife at 1 a.m. on June 17, according to TMZ, only to find her unconscious and cold body in the shower six or seven hours later.
Sources who spoke to the outlet mentioned that when Claxton contacted 911, he was instructed to perform CPR on his wife of four years.
Although the cause of Burrell’s death has not been confirmed, it is suspected that she may have died from a cardiac arrest, as per a representative from the NYC Fire Department.
In response to her untimely passing, the Food Network paid homage to the celebrity chef.
They stated: “Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring.
“Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
Although Burrell is primarily recognized as a chef, she also earned a degree in English and Communications. After obtaining this qualification from Canisius College in Buffalo, she decided to attend culinary school to pursue her passion for becoming a chef.
She enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park and graduated in 1996. Burrell went on to work at several well-known establishments in New York City before launching her television career in 2004 on “Iron Chef America”.
If you have experienced a bereavement and wish to speak with someone confidentially, reach out to GrieveWell at (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].