Anne Burrell attends the grand opening of The Tin Building by Jean-Georges in New York City on September 28, 2022
Paramedics attempted to revive her but were unsuccessful. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The city medical examiner is expected to conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
Chef Anne Burrell leads a culinary demonstration at the New York City Wine & Food Festival’s Grand Tasting on October 13, 2019
In a statement, her family said, “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered. 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.”
Chef Anne Burrell speaks onstage during the Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival Grand Tasting at Pier 94 on October 13, 2018
That warmth was evident even in her final days, as she remained publicly engaged and characteristically joyful.
Just five days before her death, Burrell shared a cheerful post on Instagram on June 12, “I ran into @greenladyofbrooklyn in my neighborhood today!! I’m not going to lie- I have been keeping an eye out for her. I may or may not have followed her down the street for a minute. She is just lovely!!! #ilovewhatido #luckygirl 💚💚💚.”
Burrell spoke about the emotional relationship between a cook and their food, an idea that shaped her approach both on and off screen. “I truly in my heart feel that your food knows how you’re feeling when you cook it and it reacts accordingly,” she said.
Chef Anne Burrell enthusiastically demonstrates a recipe on stage during the 2023 Austin Food & Wine Festival in Austin, Texas, on November 5, 2023
She believed cooking should be enjoyable, not intimidating. Working with beginners on “Worst Cooks in America,” she emphasized creating a supportive environment. Her goal was to help people feel confident in the kitchen by focusing on fun over fear. She brought positivity to her approach and encouraged others to see mistakes as part of learning.
She also valued discipline and preparation. “Find a recipe for it. Don’t just try to wing it. Find a recipe, read several recipes and pick out the one that you feel most comfortable with or the one that you like the best, and then read it from beginning to end before you start cooking,” she advised.
Burrell emphasized staying organized in the kitchen. She advised preparing all ingredients in advance — mise en place — and cleaning as you go to reduce stress and keep the process smooth. This approach helps avoid a mess and allows for a calmer cooking experience. She also stressed tasting food while cooking to ensure proper flavor
Burrell’s commitment to encouragement, authenticity, and sharing her passion was evident both in her final interview and in her casual interactions with fans. In January, when asked on Instagram why she wasn’t appearing on the “Worst Cooks in America,” she responded candidly, “Honestly I don’t know. 🤷🏼♀️😑❤️.”
In addition to “Worst Cooks in America,” the Cazenovia native was widely recognized for hosting “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,” “All-Star Best Thing I Ever Ate,” and “Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell.” She also made appearances on “Iron Chef America.”
A 1996 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, she built a reputation for her energetic teaching style and unapologetic flair in the kitchen.
Outside of her professional achievements, Burrell often expressed joy in her personal life. In a March 2023 interview with People, she and her husband, Claxton, reflected on their relationship.
The couple met on Bumble in 2018 and became engaged in April 2020 while quarantining with her family in Cazenovia, New York. They married in October 2021 at Windridge Estates Redbarn 20, surrounded by loved ones and close friends, including fellow Food Network chefs and TV personalities.
Looking ahead, the couple spoke about their hopes for more shared experiences, from home-cooked meals to karaoke nights and travel. “I’m looking forward to taking a trip — just the two of us,” Burrell added.
Anne Burrell and her husband Stuart Claxton attend the New York City Harvest Gala: Carnaval at Cipriani 42nd Street on April 22, 2025
As the culinary world mourns the loss of Anne Burrell, the entertainment community is also grieving another sudden passing.David Hekili Kenui Bell, the actor recognized for his recent role in Disney’s live-action “Lilo & Stitch,” has passed away.
“I’ve been waiting for the words and mindset to properly express the joy of a human, and Prince of a Man he was, but fate pushed my hand this morning by a pre-scheduled Father’s Day newsletter honoring the men in our lives,” she expressed.
Hawaii police confirmed that David died on June 12 at 2:26 p.m. Authorities have launched a coroner’s inquest investigation, and an autopsy is being scheduled to determine the exact cause of death, according to a police spokesperson. “No foul play is suspected,” the statement said, even though the investigation remains ongoing.
David’s passing at 46 caught even those close to him by surprise. His representative, Lashauna Downie, told TMZ, “I am learning like you through social media. This is heartbreaking & sad. He was one of my best talent & embodied the true meaning of aloha … a gentle giant.”
David gained attention for portraying the character Big Hawaiian Dude in “Lilo & Stitch” (2025), a nod to the Ice Cream Man — a recurring gag from the original animated series, where the character frequently drops his ice cream before getting a bite.
Two weeks before his death, on May 28, David posted a video of his audition tape for the role, along with behind-the-scenes photos from the film’s set.
He also bought premiere tickets for his family and attended the opening night screening of “Lilo & Stitch” in Kapolei, which he planned himself. His sister even joked that planning ahead was “one trait” they didn’t share.
After the movie, they considered reenacting the ice cream scene by getting shaved ice, but the store had closed. Later, they did so to honor his memory, a gesture her grandson found deeply emotional.
David was also known for roles in “Hawaii Five-O,” “The Wrecking Crew,” and “Magnum P.I.” (2018). Off-screen, he lent his voice to various projects and worked at Kona Airport, where he proudly ensured a safe and pleasant experience for travelers through announcements over the PA system.
David was particularly proud of his nieces and grandnephew, often organizing family activities and expressing excitement about attending Tatihi and the Lindsey reunion to deepen family ties.
She extended her gratitude to Aunty Gerry and the Kenui ‘Ohana, writin, “You raised an amazing human who became the most loving and supportive man in my life and I am eternally grateful.”
She mentioned plans to reshare some of David’s favorite social media posts, many of which she only discovered after his passing.
Their final time together was spent on her living room couch, “talking story about life, having a seltzer and doing a little genealogy [sic].” She described herself as blessed by all the big and small moments they shared.
As tributes continue to pour in, David is remembered not only for his growing presence on screen but also for his vibrant personality, deep family ties, and love for his Hawaiian roots. His impact resonates through his performances, public service, and cherished memories with those who knew him.
