Robert Irvine's Heartbreaking Message After Anne Burrell's Death
The top Food Network chefs have become celebrities in their own right. That was true of Anne Burrell, who helped struggling chefs improve their cooking skills.
And it's also true of Robert Irvine, the chef who helps struggling restaurants with the "impossible" task of turning things around.
Irvine was one of the Food Network's biggest names to speak out first about Burrell's unexpected death on June 17 at the age of 55. She was found unresponsive at her Brooklyn home and could not be revived, according to TMZ. The Food Network confirmed her death in its own statement. The cause of death is not yet clear, although the initial call came in for cardiac arrest, TMZ reported.
"I am stunned and deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Anne Burrell," Irvine wrote in the emotional statement that he posted to X.
"Anne wasn't just a fiery chef. She was a radiant spirit who lit up every room she entered. From the very beginning on Worst Cooks in America, our friendly rivalry was fueled by mutual respect: I'd risk bleaching my hair; she'd risk losing hers," he continued.
"An epic wager that epitomized her unbeatable spirit. It was a wager I ultimately lost, but I couldn't imagine losing to a more fierce competitor. Outside of Worst Cooks I came to know her as a generous and supportive colleague and an even better friend. I'll always remember her unwavering dedication, not just to food, but to lifting others up," Irvine added.
"She believed in nurturing culinary potential and celebrating small victories, whether in an amateur cook or on a charity fundraiser. That was Anne. Uncompromising in her standards, yet tender in her mentorship," he continued.
"To her husband Stuart, her stepson Javier, her mother Marlene, sister Jane, and her many friends and fans: please know that Anne's warmth, vibrant spirit, and generous heart will echo in kitchens around the world and in our hearts forever," Irvine added.
"Rest in peace, Chef. Your legacy as a champion of food, kindness, and empowerment will continue to inspire. Thank you for every lesson, every challenge, and every glorious moment. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten."
Food Network's Sandra Lee also posted a tribute to Burrell on her Instagram page.
"Oh Anne-you are so loved and you will be so missed. You were the next generation of light in the culinary Food Network world. We all adore you and will forever remember your quick wit, sassy drive, determined nature, and magical laughter. I hope you have so much fun in heavens kitchen," she wrote.
My heart is broken that you're no longer here but I'm so grateful that we had such wonderful moments together. With all the truffles and caviar the universe can hold-all my love, Sandra."Robert Irvine's Heartbreaking Message After Anne Burrell's Death first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 18, 2025
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