A bittersweet moment is approaching for fans of Food Network. The final season of Anne Burrell’s beloved show, ‘Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible,’ is set to premiere. This new batch of episodes will air every Monday, starting July 28th at 9 p.m. ET on Food Network. Viewers can also catch them streaming on HBO Max the very next day.
It’s a poignant farewell because this season was filmed before Burrell’s unexpected passing. She sadly died on June 17th at the age of 55. This final run will show her doing what she did best: trying to turn kitchen disasters into culinary stars. She guided a group of famous faces who were completely lost in the kitchen.
Burrell teamed up with Italian chef and TV personality Gabe Bertaccini for this last adventure. Over its two decades on air, ‘Worst Cooks in America’ has completed more than 20 seasons. Anne Burrell herself filmed over 200 episodes during her impressive career. She truly left her mark on the show.
Before the season even started, Food Network aired a special tribute to Burrell on June 25th. This special showcased her amazing skills as a chef, a competitor, and a teacher. It was a chance for everyone to remember her extraordinary talent.
Her family confirmed the sad news of her death to Us Weekly. They released a touching statement about their loss. “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend,” the statement read. “Her smile lit up every room she entered. Anne’s light radiated far beyond those who knew her, touching millions around the world. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and infinite love remain eternal.”
Anne Burrell James Devaney/GC Images
The New York City Fire Department confirmed to news outlets on June 18th that a 911 caller claimed Burrell had suffered a “cardiac arrest” and was “without vital signs” upon their arrival. The exact cause of her death has not yet been officially confirmed. However, a report from The New York Times on June 20th stated that the New York Police Department is investigating whether a possible drug overdose was a factor in her death.
The New York Police Department also confirmed that officers responded to a 911 call on June 17th. They found Burrell unconscious and unresponsive inside her Brooklyn home. A spokesperson for the department told Us Weekly that she was sadly pronounced “dead at the scene.”
Tributes poured in from across the culinary world after the news broke. Food Network shared their deep sorrow in a statement. “We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef Anne Burrell passed away this morning,” they wrote. “Anne was an exceptional person and a tremendous culinary talent: she taught, she competed, and she always shared the importance of food in her life and the joy a delicious meal can bring. Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends, and fans during this time of immense loss.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or substance use, help is available.
- Call 911 for immediate medical attention.
- For suicide and crisis prevention, reach out to 988.
- The SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) National Helpline is available at 1-800-662-HELP.
Carrying naloxone (Narcan) can help reverse an opioid overdose.