Anne Burrell died by suicide from acute intoxication of 4 drugs combined, autopsy reveals
Saloni Jha | Jul 26, 2025, 00:22 IST
Highlight of the story: Celebrity chef Anne Burrell tragically died by suicide at 55, with an autopsy confirming her cause of death as acute intoxication from a combination of alcohol and medications. The culinary world mourns the vibrant Food Network star, whose passing highlights the silent battles many face behind closed doors.
Beloved chef and television personality Anne Burrell has died by suicide at the age of 55, the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed. Known for her bold cooking style and infectious energy, Burrell was found unresponsive in her Brooklyn home last month.
The official cause of death was listed as acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine. The heartbreaking revelation has sent waves of grief through the culinary and entertainment industries.
According to People, the autopsy disclosed a fatal blend of substances that ultimately claimed Burrell’s life. Diphenhydramine and cetirizine, both antihistamines, were found in her system, alongside ethanol (alcohol) and amphetamine, a stimulant often prescribed for ADHD. This powerful combination proved fatal.
Acute intoxication, as described by medical professionals, occurs when a high dose of drugs or alcohol is consumed over a short time, disrupting essential bodily functions such as breathing, heart rate, and consciousness. In severe cases, this can result in coma or death.
Just one day after her death, an NYPD spokesperson confirmed that emergency services were dispatched to Burrell’s residence. She was found “unconscious and unresponsive,” and was pronounced dead on the scene.
According to an internal police document cited by The New York Times, Burrell was discovered in her shower surrounded by approximately 100 assorted pills, painting a grim picture of the celebrity chef’s final moments.
Anne Burrell rose to fame through shows like Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and Worst Cooks in America, where her magnetic personality made her a household name. Her death is not only a devastating personal loss to those who knew her but also a harsh reminder of the mental health struggles that often go unseen.
Fans and fellow chefs continue to pour in tributes, remembering her not just for her cooking, but for the passion and joy she brought to countless kitchens and screens.
Anne Burrell committed suicide
The official cause of death was listed as acute intoxication due to the combined effects of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine. The heartbreaking revelation has sent waves of grief through the culinary and entertainment industries.
What the autopsy revealed?
According to People, the autopsy disclosed a fatal blend of substances that ultimately claimed Burrell’s life. Diphenhydramine and cetirizine, both antihistamines, were found in her system, alongside ethanol (alcohol) and amphetamine, a stimulant often prescribed for ADHD. This powerful combination proved fatal.
Acute intoxication, as described by medical professionals, occurs when a high dose of drugs or alcohol is consumed over a short time, disrupting essential bodily functions such as breathing, heart rate, and consciousness. In severe cases, this can result in coma or death.
A disturbing scene
Just one day after her death, an NYPD spokesperson confirmed that emergency services were dispatched to Burrell’s residence. She was found “unconscious and unresponsive,” and was pronounced dead on the scene.
According to an internal police document cited by The New York Times, Burrell was discovered in her shower surrounded by approximately 100 assorted pills, painting a grim picture of the celebrity chef’s final moments.
A final goodbye to a food icon
Anne Burrell rose to fame through shows like Secrets of a Restaurant Chef and Worst Cooks in America, where her magnetic personality made her a household name. Her death is not only a devastating personal loss to those who knew her but also a harsh reminder of the mental health struggles that often go unseen.
Fans and fellow chefs continue to pour in tributes, remembering her not just for her cooking, but for the passion and joy she brought to countless kitchens and screens.