Anne Burrell, the Food Network chef known for hosting shows like “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef” and “Worst Cooks in America,” was found deceased in her Brooklyn home in June 2025. The New York Police Department confirmed that investigators located a suicide note in the primary bedroom, providing new details about the circumstances surrounding her death.
The NYPD stated that along with the note, investigators discovered journal entries with suicidal content inside the same room. Burrell’s husband, Stuart Claxton, found her unresponsive on the shower floor of their home. Emergency Medical Services responded to the call but were unable to revive her.
Authorities also reported finding numerous pills near the scene. In July 2025, the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled Anne Burrell’s death a suicide, with the cause identified as acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine (an antihistamine), ethanol, cetirizine (another antihistamine), and amphetamine.
Burrell, a native New Yorker, became well-known through her work on the Food Network and her participation in the Iron Chef series. She was 55 years old at the time of her passing. Despite the tragedy, her last social media post showed her smiling outdoors in Brooklyn.
The discovery of the note and journal entries may offer insight into Burrell’s mental health leading up to her death. Mental health resources remain available for those in crisis, with support accessible by calling or texting 988 or through the 988lifeline.org website.
