Food Network Star Anne Burrell Dies by Suicide

Newly released NYPD report confirms discovery of suicide note and journal entries at Burrell's Brooklyn home

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Months after Food Network star Anne Burrell's death was ruled a suicide, a newly released NYPD report confirms that a suicide note and 'suicidal' journal entries were found in her Brooklyn home on the morning she died in June 2025. The report states that Burrell's husband Stuart Claxton found her unresponsive on the bathroom floor with a quantity of over-the-counter pills nearby. The New York City medical examiner's office later ruled her death a suicide, with the official cause of death listed as acute intoxication due to the combined effects of several medications.

Why it matters

Burrell was a beloved and recognizable TV personality, having hosted the long-running show 'Worst Cooks in America' on Food Network for 27 seasons. Her tragic death has shocked the culinary community and raised questions about mental health awareness and support for high-profile individuals.

The details

According to the NYPD report, investigators recovered a 'suicidal note' from the primary bedroom of Burrell's Brooklyn property, as well as journal entries described as 'suicidal' on the bed in the same room. Claxton told police he became alarmed that morning when he noticed 'the bed was made in their room which is not normal,' and found his wife unresponsive in the bathroom. Paramedics were unable to revive Burrell, and she was declared dead at the scene.

  • On June 17, 2025, Burrell was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn home.
  • In July 2025, the New York City medical examiner's office ruled Burrell's death a suicide.

The players

Anne Burrell

A Food Network star known for hosting the long-running show 'Worst Cooks in America' for 27 seasons.

Stuart Claxton

Burrell's husband, who found her unresponsive in their Brooklyn home and called 911.

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What’s next

The NYPD and medical examiner's office continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Burrell's death.

The takeaway

Burrell's tragic passing has underscored the importance of mental health awareness and support, even for high-profile individuals. Her death has left a profound impact on the culinary community and her many fans, who will remember her vibrant spirit and passion for food.