In a shocking announcement today, the beloved Food Network chef Anne Burrell committed suicide a few weeks ago, according to the NYC Office of Chief Medical Examiner, per TMZ. Burrell, who was 55 years old, reportedly died from "acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine."
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She was discovered unresponsive at her home in Brooklyn, New York, on June 17. Burrell could not be roused by medical professionals who were summoned to the scene. It was reportedly her husband, Stuart Claxton, who came upon Burrell lying in the bathroom.
The News Comes as a Real Stunner
The news comes as a stunning revelation. Burrell was known and admired for her love of all things culinary. She had a buoyant personality and a sense of fun that she bought to all the cooking shows she was on. They included Secrets of a Restaurant and Worst Cooks in America. Her trademark was a short, tousled, platinum-blonde coif that accentuated her playful demeanor.
Her Reps Issued a Sorrowful Statement on the Day Burrell Passed Away Last Month
Per People, the sad statement issued on behalf of her family in June read as follows. "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."
Fans Paid Emotional Tributes to Her on Social Media Right After She Died
Many people jumped on social media last month to share their thoughts about Burrell and what she meant to them. This is a sampling from Reddit.
"While 'Worst Cooks' may be somewhat scripted, I learned so much from it about proper preparation and cooking. Anne will be sorely missed."
"I learned 'mise en place' watching her and it has helped immensely when making dinner. No rushing around and looking for that one ingredient I forgot to pull out."
"Yes! My husband started doing basic things when making meals, that he learned from her, and they really are so helpful!"
"Yes! I learned all my knife skills from Worst Cooks. I credit Anne for turning me into a decent home cook."
