The cooking community is in mourning.
After Anne Burrell died at her home June 17, many chefs flocked to social media to pay tribute, with the Food Network—where the 55-year-old hosted Worst Cooks in America and Secrets of a Restaurant Chef—sharing that they were “deeply saddened” by her passing.
“Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent,” a statement from the channel posted on Instagram read, “teaching, competing and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring.”
In the comments section, Carla Hall shared the same sentiment.
“Anne was an incredible cook & teacher,” the Top Chef alum wrote. “FIERCE! She will be missed.”
Meanwhile, East Meets West‘s Ming Tsai remarked, “This is so so so sad. We lost a good one here.”
Food Network Star contestant Chris Valdes added, “Heartbroken by the loss of Chef Anne Burrell. A true culinary force—bold, passionate, and unforgettable. Her fire, laughter, and love for food inspired so many.”
In addition to hosting her own shows, Burrell competed on several Food Network competitions, including Chopped All-Stars Tournament. She placed third on the inaugural season, with Nate Appleman and Aarón Sanchez beating her out for the top spots.
“I’m heartbroken by the loss of my dear friend, Chef Anne Burrell,” Sanchez wrote on his Instagram June 17. “Her spirit, her fire, her talent, her leadership, her laugh—unforgettable. I’ll carry her memory with me always.”
Burrell’s The Next Iron Chef competitor Robert Irvine also posted his own tribute, sharing that their “friendly rivalry was fueled by mutual respect.”
“I’ll always remember her unwavering dedication, not just to food, but to lifting others up,” he continued. “She believed in nurturing culinary potential and celebrating small victories, whether in an amateur cook or on a charity fundraiser.”
Remembering Burrell as a “radiant spirit who lit up every room she entered,” Irvine added, “Thank you for every lesson, every challenge, and every glorious moment.”
For a look at Burrell’s life in photos, read on.
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