New York Police Reveal Anne Burrell Left Suicidal Note and Diary Entries Before Her Death at Brooklyn Home

Anne Burrell, the beloved Food Network chef known for Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and co-hosting Worst Cooks in America, died tragically last year at the age of 55.

New reports have shed light on the events surrounding her death, revealing a deeply personal and painful struggle that was largely hidden from those closest to her.

Discovery of a Suicidal Note and Diary

According to the latest New York City Police Department report, investigators found a note in Burrell’s master bedroom indicating suicidal thoughts, alongside a journal filled with entries reflecting the same.

Her husband, Stuart Claxton, discovered her body at their Brooklyn home on June 17, 2025.

Authorities later determined the cause of death as acute intoxication from a combination of diphenhydramine, cetirizine, amphetamines, and alcohol.

Interestingly, Claxton told police that Burrell had never previously attempted suicide, discussed such thoughts, or given any hint she might act on them.

This contradiction between her hidden distress and the absence of outward signs left family, friends, and fans reeling.

The Morning of Her Death

The police report describes Claxton noticing that the bed had been made that morning—something he noted was unusual.

Upon entering the bathroom, he found Burrell unresponsive on the floor, surrounded by dozens of over-the-counter pills.

Despite his efforts to revive her by shaking her and calling 911, the emergency responders were unable to save her.

NYPD records indicated that roughly 100 pills were scattered around her body.

Claxton, who married Burrell in October 2021 in upstate New York, reportedly last saw her alive around 1:00 a.m., several hours before discovering her death.

Pursuits Beyond the Kitchen

Even in her final months, Burrell’s curiosity and passion for learning were evident.

She had begun taking improv acting classes in Brooklyn, joining younger classmates who often had advanced theater degrees.

On Tori Spelling’s podcast in March 2025, Burrell spoke with her signature humor about feeling like “the old lady in class,” but expressed excitement about exploring life beyond cooking.

Around this time, she also announced a hiatus from Worst Cooks in America after Season 28, explaining that she wanted to explore new opportunities and passions.

“I can cook, yes, I can do TV, but also, what else? I’ve got more to do in my life,” she said, hinting at projects she wasn’t yet ready to share publicly.

The Impact on Family and Fans

Burrell’s death left a profound void in the culinary world and among her fans.

Her family described her as someone whose “smile lit up every room” and whose “light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world.”

Fans of Worst Cooks in America were particularly affected when the show returned last month without her, highlighting just how much her presence meant both on and off-screen.

A Culinary Legacy

Burrell’s love of cooking started in childhood, inspired by figures like Julia Child.

She honed her craft at esteemed New York restaurants such as Felidia and Savoy, eventually becoming a celebrated television personality.

Her expertise in Mediterranean cuisine and her engaging, sometimes fiery, personality made her a favorite among viewers.

What’s Next?

While her passing is a profound loss, those close to Burrell continue to honor her memory by sharing her passion for cooking and embracing life with the same curiosity she embodied.

Friends, fans, and colleagues are reflecting on mental health awareness and the hidden struggles even the most seemingly vibrant individuals may face.

Summary

Anne Burrell’s death serves as a stark reminder of the hidden battles people may face.

If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741-741.