Anne Burrell embraced comedy the night before her shocking death.
The 55-year-old chef performed an improv show at The Second City New York in Brooklyn on Monday night. She was found dead at her home in Brooklyn the following day.
“Everyone said she was so great last night and so happy,” a source told People.
Anne Burrell at the New York City Wine and Food Festival in 2019. Getty Images for NYCWFF
Anne Burrell at the 2022 New York City Wine and Food Festival. Getty Images for NYCWFFA different source, who was with Burrell at the improv show, said the late star “was in great spirits last night during and after the improv show.”
“Typical fun, outgoing Anne, having a blast,” the insider shared.
Burrell seemed fine when the show ended, added the source, who stated that everyone is “shocked and confused” over her death.
Anne Burrell at Second City New York in Brooklyn on June 9, 2025. chefanneburrell/InstagramA week before her death, the Food Network star posted an Instagram teasing her June 16 improv show.
“Sooooooo… as I have mentioned I have been taking Improv classes @thesecondcitytc and having an ABSOLUTE blast!!!” she wrote alongside a group photo of her and her classmates outside the venue, followed by a selfie of her inside.
Anne Burrell outside Second City New York in Brooklyn. chefanneburrell/Instagram“My class and I are coming to the end of this term and we get to do an actual show!!!” Burrell continued. “If anyone is interested in stopping by on Monday June 16 at 9 pm @thesecondcity in Brooklyn please feel free!! We are a small but SUPER fun bunch.”
Burrell announced she was taking improv classes at The Second City in March, writing on Instagram, “Can I just say it is SO much fun and I am learning so SO much!!! It really helps me get out of my shell… as if I needed that!! #ilovewhatido #luckygirl.”
Anne Burrell at the 2023 Austin Food & Wine Festival. Getty ImagesThe Second City posted a tribute to Burrell following news of her death on Tuesday.
“We’re are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and student, Anne Burrell,” the venue wrote. “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.”
Anne Burrell at the James Beard Foundation Awards Gala for Good in 2013. Andy Kropa/Invision/AP
Anne Burrell at the premiere of the Showtime limited series “The Loudest Voice” in June 2019. Evan Agostini/Invision/APThe Post has reached out to The Second City New York for comment.
The New York City Police Department confirmed that Burrell was found “unconscious and unresponsive” and pronounced dead at her home in Brooklyn.
Follow The Post’s coverage on Anne Burrell’s death
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The cause of death has yet to be confirmed. The Office of Chief Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy.
Anne Burrell at a culinary presentation during the New York City Wine and Food Festival in October 2014. Bryan BedderBurrell’s family confirmed her death in an emotional statement.
“Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered,” their statement read.
Anne Burrell in 2007. Zandy Mangold for NY PostThe family added that Burrell’s “light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”
Anne Burrell during the 2016 Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival in Miami Beach. Thaddaeus McAdamsThe Food Network remembered Burrell with a touching tribute as well.
“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,” a representative for the network told The Post.
