Gigi Hadid mourns Anne Burrell’s unexpected death: “Heartbroken” after their 2023 collab on Beat Bobby Flay

2025 City Harvest Gala - Source: Getty
Anne Burrell attends the 2025 City Harvest Gala: Carnaval at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. (Image via Getty/Astrida Valigorsky)

Gigi Hadid is grieving the demise of Anne Burrell, who died unexpectedly at the age of 55 on June 17.

The two first crossed paths in 2023, when they teamed up for an episode of Beat Bobby Flay. Following the news of the Food Network star's passing, the supermodel took to social media to pen a tribute, coupled with a photo of the two on set. In it, they could be seen engaging in a conversation.

"I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of the Great Anne Burrell," Gigi captioned the Instagram Story. "As a longtime fan, getting to share this day with her was a dream come true. Beat Bobby. Hang. Eat. "I wish we could have done it again," Gigi wrote. "She was awesome." She concluded the post, "Rest in Peace Legend."

Anne Burrell's life and legacy explored as sources say she was in good spirits the night before her demise:

Anne Burrell's family recently told E! News that the former host of Worst Cooks in America died at her home in Brooklyn.

"Anne's light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world," they said in a statement. "Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal."

People Magazine has reported that she was found “unconscious and unresponsive” at around 7:50 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17. The New York City Police Department told the outlet that EMS "responded and pronounced her deceased on scene."

As of this writing, further details about her demise remain unclear, though the entertainment and culinary world is loudly mourning her loss.

“We are deeply saddened to share the news that beloved chef, Anne Burrell, passed away this morning,” Food Network said in a statement. “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. Our thoughts are with Anne’s family, friends and fans during this time of tremendous loss.”

Anne Burrell was seen the night before her demise at an improv show, which she performed at The Second City New York in Brooklyn. The night's show was the finale of her course in improv, People Magazine has reported. She was reportedly in "great spirits" that night, both "during and after the improv show." Typical fun, outgoing Anne, having a blast.”

Aarón Sanchez, who starred alongside her in Chopped All-Stars Tournament, also chimed in:

"Her spirit, her fire, her talent, her leadership, her laugh—unforgettable. I'll carry her memory with me always."

Kardea Brown penned:

“In utter disbelief right now 😢 They say things you do for yourself will be gone when you’re gone … but things you do for others will remain as your legacy forever. @chefanneburrell you left us with so much … thank you for your contributions to the culinary world and the lives you touched with your infectious personality. Forever in our hearts💔.”

Will Coleman and Bobby Berk have also paid their respects on social media, with both reflecting on her lasting legacy. The former referred to Anne Burrell as a "light to folks on the screen and beyond" as he credited her for teaching him the importance of authenticity at a young age. Berk simply commented on Burrell's last Instagram post, “😢💚.”

Wells Adams, who competed on season 19 of Worst Cooks in America, took to his Instagram Stories to pen:

“I just heard about the passing of @chefanneburrell. I learned so much from you on Worst Cooks. I know you’ll be cooking up a storm in heaven. RIP.”

Sandra Lee told Us Weekly in a statement:

“Anne Burrell was smart. She was sweet. She was funny. She was larger than life. She lived it completely, unabashedly and uniquely. I’ll never forget the first time I met her in a casino in Atlantic City, she boldly approached me, introducing herself with her girl gang — she was so endearing, so so funny and delightful.” The fellow chef continued, “Anne was one of a kind. May she rest in glory — another culinary royalty in heaven guiding all of our recipes now. Love u always Anne — Sandy!”

On Monday, June 9, Anne Burrell told her followers that she was “having an ABSOLUTE blast" with her improv classes. She also promoted her show scheduled for June 16 before sharing a photo of her and some classmates. She also uploaded a selfie, taken at The Second City venue, according to People Magazine.

"We’re are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and student, Anne Burrell," Second City New York's statement read. "She will be missed and remembered as a vibrant part of our Second City New York Training Center community. Anne brought joy, boldness, and an unwavering 'yes, and' spirit. Her enthusiasm was contagious, her presence unforgettable. Our thoughts go out to Anne’s family and loved ones."

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Edited by Ishita Banerjee