Authorities have unveiled further details regarding the unexpected demise of renowned chef Anne Burrell, who died at the age of 55.
Hailing from New York, Burrell was widely recognized for her contributions to the Food Network. She hosted the show Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and co-hosted Worst Cooks in America. Additionally, she featured in other programs on the network, such as The Best Thing I Ever Ate.
The esteemed chef had prior experience working in Italian restaurants before making her way back to the United States. She served as a sous chef at Felidia, a former establishment owned by fellow celebrity chef Lidia Bastianich, which was highly esteemed.
Her foray into television began two decades ago in 2005 when Iron Chef Mario Batali invited her to join as one of his sous chefs for a pilot episode of Iron Chef America.
The food television personality was discovered deceased in her Brooklyn, New York, home on Tuesday morning (June 17).
Officers from the New York Police Department found Burrell “unconscious and unresponsive” and she was declared dead at the premises.
An emergency services call was placed at 7:50 a.m. by an individual worried she had experienced cardiac arrest, as detailed in a 911 call report provided to People by the New York City Fire Department.
The official cause of death has yet to be certified by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Burrell’s family acknowledged her sudden passing in a statement released on Tuesday.
“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 continued. “Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”
The Food Network paid tribute to Burrell, describing her death as a “tremendous loss.”
“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,” the network stated.
“Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends, and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
Chef Robert Irvine, who appeared with Anne Burrell on Worst Cooks in America, posted a touching tribute on Instagram upon hearing about her death.
“I am stunned and deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Anne Burrell,” he began his tribute.
“Anne wasn’t just a fiery chef. She was a radiant spirit who lit up every room she entered. From the very beginning on Worst Cooks in America, our friendly rivalry was fuelled by mutual respect: I’d risk bleaching my hair; she’d risk losing hers. An epic wager that epitomized her unbeatable spirit. It was a wager I ultimately lost, but I couldn’t imagine losing to a more fierce competitor.”