More details are emerging regarding the death of Anne Burrell, with sources saying she was in "great spirits" the night before she died.
The beloved 55-year-old Worst Cooks in America host and Food Network star was found "unresponsive" in her apartment on June 17.
Her cause of death remains under investigation, pending an autopsy by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner.
In a touching family statement, they said: “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.”
The day before her passing, Anne wrapped up an improv comedy course at Second City New York.
According to PEOPLE, she took part in a closing show on June 16 at The Second City venue, where she “was in great spirits last night during and after the improv show. Typical fun, outgoing Anne, having a blast,” per a source who was with her.
A social media post captured the excitement. Just over a week earlier, Anne had posted: “I’m having an ABSOLUTE blast."
She first announced her foray on March 19, excitedly sharing: “Can I just say it is SO much fun and I am learning so SO much!!! It really helps me get out of my shell… as if I needed that!! #ilovewhatido #luckygirl.”
And on April 28, she added: “I’m THRILLED to be back!!”
Anne’s final Instagram post - made only five days prior - showed her beaming with Brooklyn’s legendary “Green Lady” Elizabeth Eaton Rosenthal, captioned: “I ran into @greenladyofbrooklyn in my neighborhood today!!
"I’m not going to lie — I have been keeping an eye out for her. I may or may not have followed her down the street for a minute. She is just lovely!!! #ilovewhatido #luckygirl.”
Rosenthal commented: “Hi Ann it was so much fun meeting you… love and hugs…” days before tragedy struck.
After news of Anne’s death, she returned to share a poignant invitation: “You are such a lovely person… I just love you and so sorry but come to my garden… I will be waiting for you.”
The culinary world has been paying its respects. Franklin Becker shared: “I am stunned… I just had dinner with Anne and Stuart the other night… We were making karaoke plans together. I simply cannot believe this. Anne was a gifted chef and a friend. No words.”
Fellow Worst Cooks in America host Tyler Florence added: “Anne was a legendary chef and an even better friend… She lit up every room she walked in to… She had a true gift for teaching people how to cook - with patience, wit and just the right amount of sass.”
He continued: “I’ll always picture Anne in her dressing room, knitting between takes, with one of her cats wandering in to say hello. She brought her generous heart, humor and feisty spirit to everything she did. She will be deeply missed by the entire Florence Family.”
Food Network also paid tribute: “Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent… Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”
Anne began her culinary journey teaching at the Institute of Culinary Education in the early 2000s.
She went on to become a Food Network mainstay - appearing on Iron Chef America, Chopped, Chef Wanted, and Worst Cooks in America. In March 2025, she competed on the series House of Knives.
She also authored two cookbooks: the NYT bestseller Cook Like a Rock Star (2011) and Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower.
Anne leaves behind a large, loving family - including her husband Stuart Claxton, his son Javier, her mother Marlene, sister Jane, brother Ben, and her three children: Isabella, Amelia, and Nicolas.