Rachael Ray Breaks Silence On Late Friend Anne Burrell's 'Unnerving' Sudden Death

Celebrity chef Rachael Ray has opened up about the shock and heartbreak she feels following the unexpected passing of her close friend and Food Network star Anne Burrell.

Describing Anne Burrell's death as "very unnerving," Rachael Ray took to social media on Wednesday to reflect on the vibrant friendship they shared.

Ray, who served as a bridesmaid at Burrell's wedding, expressed her disbelief and grief in a heartfelt statement.

"The news about Anne has truly shaken us. John and I are heartbroken," she began. "I can't quite believe it. Such a strong, vibrant, fearless woman, so full of life and love, could be gone so soon. Anne was a rockstar!"

Burrell was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn home on Tuesday morning and later pronounced dead. Law enforcement sources told TMZ that emergency personnel were called after Burrell suffered cardiac arrest.

An autopsy by the medical examiner has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

Burrell was a revered figure in the culinary world. After her Food Network debut in 2005 on "Iron Chef America," where she worked under Mario Batali, she went on to host "Secrets of a Restaurant Chef" and "Worst Cooks in America."

Over the years, she became known for her fiery personality, culinary expertise, and infectious energy.

Ray fondly recalled their time working together on "Worst Cooks in America," sharing, "Anne honored me by asking me to be her bridesmaid… Despite being surrounded by incredible chefs, she never once made me feel self‑conscious about not being one. She always treated me as one of the gang."

She continued, "When we hosted 'Worst Cooks' together, we had the most incredible laughs. She even cooked for me and my guests at my wedding anniversary in Italy."

Ray painted a vivid portrait of Burrell's presence both on and off camera, saying she could always be heard belting out "the song of the moment" early in the morning at the Food Network studios.

"Anne had great taste in music and in life," Ray continued. "She was a force in the kitchen, in any room, in every life she touched."

In closing, Ray shared her sorrow from a deeply personal place, "I'll miss her friendship deeply. Everyone whose life she touched will miss her. Sending love to Stuart and everyone who knew and loved Anne. We've lost someone truly special."

Ray was by far the only chef to speak out about Burrell's sudden passing. "Master Chef" judge Aarón Sánchez shared an older snap of him with Burrell, writing, "I'm heartbroken by the loss of my dear friend, Chef Anne Burrell."

"Her spirit, her fire, her talent, her leadership, her laugh…unforgettable," he added. "So much respect and love for this amazing woman. I'll carry her memory with me always. Rest easy, amiga.

A spokesperson for Food Network confirmed to Entertainment Weekly that Burrell passed away at her New York home on Tuesday.

"Anne was a remarkable person and culinary talent, teaching, competing, and always sharing the importance of food in her life and the joy that a delicious meal can bring," the network shared in a statement. "Our thoughts are with Anne's family, friends, and fans during this time of tremendous loss."

Burrell was a beloved fixture on the Food Network, best known for her long-running role as the no-nonsense, flame-haired host of "Worst Cooks in America."

Over the course of 27 seasons from 2010 to 2024, she helped guide hapless home cooks toward culinary redemption with her signature mix of tough love and infectious enthusiasm. She also fronted the hit series "Secrets of a Restaurant Chef," which aired for nine seasons, and made appearances on several fan-favorite Food Network programs including "Iron Chef America," "The Next Iron Chef," "The Best Thing I Ever Ate," and "Beat Bobby Flay."

Outside the small screen, Burrell shared her passion through the written word, authoring two cookbooks, "Cook Like a Rock Star" and "Own Your Kitchen: Recipes to Inspire and Empower," both of which reflected her philosophy of approachable, confidence-boosting cooking.

Anne Burrell's untimely passing has left a profound void in the culinary community. Her bold spirit, kindness, and mentorship will be remembered by peers and fans alike.