Food Network airs season premiere, paying tribute to Anne Burrell, native of CNY
Chef Anne Burrell, renowned for her appearances on shows like "Worst Cooks in America" and "Iron Chef America," tragically passed away on June 17, 2025, in her Brooklyn home. The New York City Medical Examiner's Office ruled her death as a suicide, citing acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol (alcohol), cetirizine, and amphetamine as the cause[1][2][3].
Burrell, who hailed from Cazenovia, New York, began her culinary career at the former Daniel Webster's Restaurant in Syracuse. She later rose to prominence, hosting her own Food Network shows, including "Secrets of a Restaurant Chef," "Worst Cooks in America," and "Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell."
In a poignant tribute, the first episode of the recently premiered Season 29 of "Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible" paid homage to Burrell. A message reading "In Memoriam, Anne Burrell, 1969-2025" was displayed during the episode. Furthermore, the show has pledged to pay tribute to Burrell each week throughout Season 29[4].
Burrell remained close to her Central New York roots, making regular appearances. Her mother, Marlene Burrell, ran the flower shop, Flowers on Main, in Cazenovia.
Food Network also paid tribute to Burrell on their Instagram account following her passing, expressing their condolences and appreciation for her contributions to the culinary world. In addition, a message encouraging help for those struggling or in crisis was displayed during the first episode of Season 29[5].
Episodes of "Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible" can be viewed on Max and Discovery[6]. Burrell co-hosted Season 29 with Gabe Bertaccini[7]. Despite the sadness surrounding the show this season, it continues to inspire and teach aspiring cooks, much like Burrell did throughout her career.
[1] https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/18/arts/television/anne-burrell-dead.html [2] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-57620233 [3] https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/18/entertainment/anne-burrell-dead/index.html [4] https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/worst-cooks-in-america-talented-and-terrible [5] https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/worst-cooks-in-america-talented-and-terrible/news/2025/anne-burrell-tribute-season-29 [6] https://www.maxgo.com/shows/worst-cooks-in-america-talented-and-terrible [7] https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/worst-cooks-in-america/articles/2025/09/28-anne-burrell-and-gabe-bertaccini-are-back-for-season-29-of-worst-cooks-in-america-talented-and-terrible
Celebrities and entertainment intertwined as Food Network and "Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible" paid tribute to Chef Anne Burrell following her tragic passing, with a heartfelt message displayed during the first episode of Season 29.
In the aftermath of her untimely death, the show has vowed to honor Burrell's legacy throughout the season, cementing her place in the culinary entertainment world.
