Celebrity chef Anne Burrell’s passing has officially been ruled a suicide by the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The 55-year-old Food Network star died from acute intoxication caused by a combination of substances, including diphenhydramine (an antihistamine), ethanol (alcohol), cetirizine (another antihistamine), and amphetamine, a drug often used to treat ADHD.
Burrell was found unconscious and unresponsive in the shower of her Brooklyn apartment on June 17, surrounded by roughly 100 assorted pills, according to police documents.
Circumstances surrounding her death
Emergency services were called after a 911 report of a cardiac arrest at Burrell’s residence. Paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene. The police initially investigated her death as a possible overdose. Despite the tragic circumstances, Burrell’s family described her as a beloved wife, sister, stepmother, and friend whose light touched millions worldwide. They declined to comment on the medical examiner’s report.
Food Network tribute and final show
In tribute to her legacy, Food Network aired a special programming block on June 25 honoring Burrell and her two-decade career. Her final season as a mentor on "Worst Cooks in America" is set to premiere on July 28 and features her alongside fellow mentor Gabe Bertaccini.
Gabe Bertaccini reflects on working With Anne Burrell
Fellow Food Network star Gabe Bertaccini shared an emotional interview describing his experience working closely with Burrell during the show’s production. He revealed that filming the new season was bittersweet, as they spent long hours together and became friends. Burrell maintained engagement with the recruits even after filming wrapped, sending Bertaccini regular updates.
Bertaccini humorously recounted the challenge of coaching a cast that includes people from varied backgrounds—such as opera singers and YouTubers—who had little cooking ability. He noted that Burrell had warned him about their lack of skills and said his patience was tested like never before while mentoring the recruits.
Anne Burrell’s career and impact
Anne Burrell was a vibrant, spiky-haired culinary icon known for her approachable yet intense teaching style. She rose to fame on Food Network shows like "Iron Chef America," "Secrets of a Restaurant Chef," and "Worst Cooks in America," mentoring countless aspiring chefs through 27 seasons of the competition series.
Her passion for teaching and her colorful personality made her a fan favorite, known for empowering people to explore cooking regardless of their skill level. Burrell’s passing marks a significant loss in the culinary television community.
Anne Burrell, a beloved Food Network chef, died by suicide due to acute intoxication involving multiple substances, including alcohol and ADHD medication. She was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn home in June 2025. Her family and colleagues mourn her loss while celebrating her influential career. The upcoming season of "Worst Cooks in America" will be her final television appearance, honoring her enduring legacy in the world of food and entertainment.
