Celebrity chef and Food Network personality Anne Burrell, best known for her no-nonsense attitude and kitchen skills on shows such as Worst Cooks in America, has passed away at the age of 55. After weeks of mourning and speculation, the New York City medical examiner's office has determined that she died by suicide.
The cause of death was acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine tert-butylthio derivative. The disclosure provides insight into the utterly unexpected nature of her death on June 17, when New York Police officers responded to a 911 emergency call about an "unconscious and unresponsive" woman in her home. Despite medical responders' best attempts, Burrell was pronounced dead at the scene.
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The news has rocked the culinary and entertainment worlds, where Burrell made a name for herself not only as a chef but as a vivacious television personality. With her head always held high, her spiky blond hair, red lips, and no apologies for her love of food, Anne was a teacher, motivator, and inspiration to a multitude of aspiring cooks across the nation. This includes her family: her husband, Stuart Claxton; stepson, Javier; mother, Marlene; and sister, Jane, who say they are profoundly shocked and saddened. "Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend; her smile lit up every room she entered," the statement said. "Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal."
Anne, who always brings the party, has been remembered by people since then, not only for her prowess in the kitchen, but also for her genuine, spunky personality, which is revealed upfront, large, and in charge, on camera. From her beginnings as a 'secret ingredient' on Iron Chef America to transforming home cooks for millions in Worst Cooks in America, she shared a unique talent and light that will remain with us and will dazzle her legions of fans. The culinary community is deeply saddened by this devastating loss, and her light will be profoundly missed. However, Anne Burrell's impact will endure not just on our screens and in our kitchens, but in the hearts of anyone who had the good fortune to know or even just meet her. And in the context of this tragedy, it's a sad reminder of the unseen struggles so many must endure and the need for mental health resources everywhere.

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