Anne Burrell got her start in the Italian cooking scene before rising to fame as a Food Network star.
Burrell studied at the Culinary Institute of America and the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners in the Piedmont region in the late ‘90s. After completing her studies, Burrell remained in Italy to work in multiple restaurants.
Following her time abroad, Burrell returned to the United States and worked in various, prestigious restaurants in New York City. In addition to restaurant life, Burrell also gave teaching a try which led to her connection to Mario Batali. The pair would go on to be friends and work together on Iron Chef America.
After joining the world of Food Network, Burrell continued to appear in countless shows as a host, judge and more. She was best known for being the host of Worst Cooks in America.
In June 2025, Burrell died at her home in Brooklyn, New York. She was 55.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” her family said in a statement to Us Weekly. “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 remains eternal.”
Keep scrolling for a look back on Burrell’s life through the years: