Food Network Star Anne Burrell’s Death Under Investigation Amid New Revelations

Food Network Star Anne Burrell’s Death Under Investigation Amid New Revelations

The sudden passing of celebrity chef Anne Burrell is now the focus of an ongoing investigation by the New York City Police Department, with authorities reportedly exploring the possibility of a drug overdose, according to internal documents obtained by The New York Times.

Burrell, 55, was discovered unresponsive in the shower at her Brooklyn residence on Tuesday morning. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene. The report notes that approximately 100 assorted pills were found nearby.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed an autopsy has been completed, though the final cause and manner of death remain pending.

Best known as the long-time host of Worst Cooks in America, Burrell also appeared on numerous Food Network programs, including Chef Wanted, Chopped, and Food Network Star. Most recently, she participated in the competitive cooking series House of Knives, which premiered in March 2025.

A police spokesperson, while not naming Burrell directly, confirmed that the case involves a 55-year-old woman discovered at a Brooklyn address, consistent with other known details. The investigation is active, and authorities are awaiting toxicology results before making further determinations.

Initial reports had cited possible cardiac arrest based on the original 911 call. However, the discovery of a large quantity of medication at the scene has prompted deeper scrutiny into the circumstances surrounding her death.

Burrell’s recent public appearances suggested she was actively engaged in new creative endeavors. Just the night before her death, she performed improv for the first time at Second City New York in Brooklyn, where she had been taking classes.

Friends and colleagues described her as enthusiastic and optimistic about new professional opportunities. Chef Andrew Zimmern, who had recently worked with her at a food festival in Puerto Rico, remarked, “She definitely had something cooking. She was excited about whatever it was she was working on.”

Only a week prior to her passing, Burrell attended an event hosted by fellow chef Elizabeth Falkner at Soho House in Manhattan. Falkner recalled their reunion warmly: “She seemed really content, like there was a warmer side coming out. She told me, ‘I want to be a better friend.’”

Burrell’s absence from the most recent season of Worst Cooks in America earlier this year drew concern from fans. In a January Instagram post, she briefly addressed questions about her departure, replying to one fan, “Honestly, I don’t know.”

The Food Network released a statement following her death:

> “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.”

Further updates on the investigation are expected as the medical examiner’s report is finalized.