Chef Anne Burrell, famed from 'Iron Chef', dies, reasons disclosed
Celebrity Chef Anne Burrell Dies by Suicide in Brooklyn Home
On June 17, 2025, Anne Burrell, a renowned Food Network star, was tragically found dead at her home in Brooklyn. The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner determined the cause of death as "acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine"[1][2].
Burrell, who was 55 at the time of her death, gained fame as the Italian sous-chef on the Food Network's Iron Chef America alongside Mario Batali. She later hosted shows such as Worst Cooks in America and Secrets of a Restaurant.
In her final social media post, Burrell shared a caption about running into a person known as @greenladyofbrooklyn, suggesting she was in good spirits. The location of the post was in her neighborhood in Brooklyn.
The toxicology report revealed that the substances involved were:
- Diphenhydramine and cetirizine are both antihistamines commonly used to treat allergic symptoms. Diphenhydramine is also known for its sedative properties.
- Ethanol refers to alcohol, which in excessive amounts can lead to poisoning.
- Amphetamine is a stimulant medication often prescribed for ADHD, and its combined use with alcohol is medically unsafe[1].
The exact location of Burrell's death was inside a bathroom in her home, where she was found surrounded by approximately 100 pills.
Stuart Claxton, Burrell's husband, found her unresponsive in a shower. The family released a statement at the time of Burrell's death, saying, "Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend-her smile lit up every room she entered." They also mentioned that though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.
The news of Burrell's death was reported by multiple outlets, including People magazine and The New York Times. Her family stated that her light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world.
[1] New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (June 17, 2025). Toxicology Report: Anne Burrell. Retrieved from https://www.nyc.gov/html/me/html/home/home.shtml [2] People Magazine (June 18, 2025). Anne Burrell, Food Network Star, Dies at 55. Retrieved from https://people.com/tv/anne-burrell-food-network-star-dies-at-55/ [3] The New York Times (June 18, 2025). Anne Burrell, Food Network Star, Dies at 55. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/18/arts/television/anne-burrell-dead.html
- The tragic death of Celebrity Chef Anne Burrell, like many other high-profile figures, was reported extensively in the world media, with outlets such as People magazine and The New York Times covering her passing.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness and mental-health discussions, Burrell's death serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and dangers of medication, particularly when combining stimulants like amphetamine with alcohol.
- Despite her untimely death, the influence of Anne Burrell extended far beyond the entertainment industry, inspiring fans worldwide in her roles as a celebrity chef and television host, showcasing her warm spirit and boundless love for cooking.
