Rachael Ray Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Late Friend and Fellow Chef Anne Burrell

Celebrity chef and TV personality Rachael Ray took to Instagram with an emotional message honoring her close friend and fellow Food Network star, Anne Burrell, who recently passed away.

“The news about Anne has truly shaken us. John and I are heartbroken,” Rachael wrote. “It’s hard to believe someone so vibrant, fearless, and full of life is suddenly gone.”

Anne Burrell was a fan favorite on shows like Worst Cooks in America, known for her bold personality and passion in the kitchen. Over the years, she and Rachael developed a friendship that went far beyond television.

“Anne was a rockstar,” Rachael shared. “After working with her on Worst Cooks, she became more than just a colleague. She was family.”

One especially meaningful moment for Rachael was when Anne asked her to be a bridesmaid — something Rachael had only done once before, for her sister.

“Even though she was surrounded by top-tier chefs, she never made me feel like I didn’t belong. She always treated me as one of the gang,” Rachael recalled.

The two shared unforgettable experiences, including Anne cooking for Rachael and her guests in Italy for her wedding anniversary. Rachael also remembered the early mornings at Food Network, hearing Anne’s music echo through the halls.

“She had great taste — in music, in food, and in life. Anne brought energy to every room she entered.”

Rachael closed her tribute with love for Anne’s husband, Stuart, and for everyone mourning her loss:
“I’ll miss her deeply. She was truly one of a kind, and her spirit will stay with everyone she touched.”