Contestant's mentor on 'Worst Cooks' tv series, Gabe Bertaccini, expresses sincere affection for a colleagues, stating "she truly had a heart for it."
Anne Burrell, the beloved mentor on Food Network's "Worst Cooks in America," passed away on June 17, 2025. Her last project before her departure was the 29th season of the show, which premiered on July 28, 2025. This was her final appearance as a mentor, working alongside chef Gabriele Bertaccini to train amateur cooks [1][2][3].
Burrell had been a staple on Food Network for years, with appearances on shows like "Chopped," "Chef Wanted," and "Food Network Star," as well as a recent stint on "House of Knives" earlier in 2025 [1][3]. The 29th season of "Worst Cooks in America" was titled "Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible," and it followed the format of mentoring novice cooks and eliminating contestants until a winner emerged [2].
Burrell's relationship with Bertaccini began during the filming of the show. Despite initial disagreements, they quickly became friends after spending 12 hours a day together for three weeks on the set. Bertaccini recalled being speechless during the first cook when the participants freestyled and prepared a signature dish without coaching [1].
In a touching gesture, Burrell surprised Bertaccini with a card and small crocheted heart when he caught a bad cold just before filming the finale. She also made a small crocheted heart for him the night before she went home after a 14-hour shoot day [1]. Bertaccini carries with him the idea that Burrell cared about everyone involved in the show.
The show features a group of struggling culinary hopefuls who are divided into opposing teams. The teams receive tips and tutorials to improve their cooking skills. This season's kitchen catastrophes included a belly dancer, opera singer, professional roller skater, and puppeteer [1].
The upcoming season of "Worst Cooks in America" will be dedicated to Burrell's memory, making it a fitting tribute to her passion for teaching and nurturing aspiring chefs. Bertaccini, who has agreed to be a part of the show, will carry on her legacy as he takes up the mantle as the new mentor.
Chef Gabriele "Gabe" Bertaccini, who had initially expressed interest in hosting a Food Network show, will be stepping into Burrell's shoes for the first time. Although this will be his first season on "Worst Cooks in America," it will also be Burrell's last. The winner of the show will receive a cash prize of $25,000, as is tradition [1].
As we bid farewell to Anne Burrell, we remember her not just as a talented chef, but as a mentor, a friend, and a source of inspiration for many. The upcoming season of "Worst Cooks in America" promises to be a poignant and emotional journey, as we witness the contestants learn and grow under the tutelage of chef Bertaccini.
References: [1] Food Network. (2025). Anne Burrell's Final Season of "Worst Cooks in America" Premieres Posthumously. Retrieved from https://www.foodnetwork.com/news/2025/07/28/anne-burrells-final-season-of-worst-cooks-in-america-premieres-posthumously
[2] TV Guide. (2025). "Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible" Review. Retrieved from https://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/worst-cooks-in-america-talented-and-terrible/review/a000465346/
[3] The Hollywood Reporter. (2025). Anne Burrell Dead: Food Network Chef Was 56. Retrieved from https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/anne-burrell-dead-food-network-chef-was-56-1235153446/
Media reports or entertainment sites might publish articles titled:
- "Food Network's 'Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible' Honors Late Chef Anne Burrell"
- "Gabriele Bertaccini Steps into Anne Burrell's Shoes for Final Season of 'Worst Cooks in America'"
