Celebrity Chef Anne Burrell Dies by Suicide

Husband says Burrell showed no warning signs before her shocking death in June 2025

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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According to a new police report, celebrity chef Anne Burrell did not exhibit any signs of suicidal thoughts or attempts prior to her death by suicide in June 2025. Her husband, Stuart Claxton, told police that Burrell "never attempted suicide in the past and has never talked about it." The report also states that Burrell left a suicide note and suicidal journal entries in her Brooklyn home.

Why it matters

Burrell's death has shocked her friends and fans, who described her as a "strong, vibrant, fearless woman, so full of life and love." Her death has raised questions about the private struggles of public figures and the importance of mental health awareness, even among those who appear to have it all.

The details

The police report states that Claxton found Burrell's unconscious body on the shower floor of their Brooklyn home on June 17, 2025. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene. The report also confirms that Burrell left a suicide note and several suicidal journal entries in the home. The New York City medical examiner's office later determined that Burrell's death was caused by "acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine."

  • Burrell was found unconscious on June 17, 2025.
  • The New York City medical examiner's office confirmed Burrell's death by suicide in July 2025.

The players

Anne Burrell

A celebrity chef and TV personality who hosted shows on the Food Network, including "Worst Cooks in America." She died by suicide in June 2025 at the age of 55.

Stuart Claxton

Burrell's husband, who found her unconscious body in their Brooklyn home and told police that she had never attempted suicide or expressed suicidal thoughts in the past.

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What they’re saying

“[She] has never attempted suicide in the past and has never talked about it.”

— Stuart Claxton, Burrell's husband (People)

“She was a strong, vibrant, fearless woman, so full of life and love.”

— Rachael Ray, Burrell's close friend (Page Six)

What’s next

The investigation into Burrell's death is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the full circumstances surrounding her suicide.

The takeaway

Burrell's tragic death serves as a reminder that even those who appear to have it all can privately struggle with mental health issues. Her story highlights the importance of destigmatizing discussions around suicide and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their public persona, have access to the support and resources they need.