Anne Burrell, Food Network star and Worst Cooks in America host, dead at 55

Celebrity chef Anne Burrell has died at 55. Her family revealed the shocking news in a statement to People.“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” they shared.“Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world.

Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”Burrell died at her home in Brooklyn, New York, on Tuesday, June 17.A cause of death was not immediately disclosed. A representative from the Food Network told The Post, “Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent – teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring.Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”Burrell cut a distinctive figure with her memorable platinum blonde pixie cut.

She was the longtime host of “Worst Cooks in America.” The show has been running for 28 seasons since 2010, and Burrell was involved since its inception.Her 2011 cookbook, “Cook Like a Rock Star,” was a New York Times bestseller.She also had a second cookbook, “Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower.”Born in 1969 in Cazenovia, New York, Burrell was inspired by both her mother’s cooking and Julia Child.

She graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1996 and went on to work at several trendy New York restaurants, including Felidia and Savoy in Soho.Burrell started her TV career as Mario Batali’s sous chef on “Iron Chef America,” before she went on to have her own show, “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef.” It premiered in 2008 and ran for eight seasons, earning an Emmy nomination.She soon became a mainstay, appearing on a slew of other Food Network shows, including “Food Network Star,” “Chef Wanted,” “Chopped,” and “House of Knives.”The “Worst Cooks In America” host was also active in phil...