Anne Burrell’s TV co-star shares final conversation before her unexpected death

Anne Burrell was found dead in her home earlier this week, and now her TV Food Network co-star, Melba Wilson, has spoken out about their last conversation, just one week before her death.

Anne Burrell, known for hosting Worst Cooks in America and Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, died on June 17 at the age of 55. Her husband, Stuart Claxton, found her unconscious in the shower of their New York home. Emergency services later confirmed her death. While the official cause of death hasn’t been announced, a rep for the NYC Fire Department says the incident was called in as a suspected cardiac arrest.

Their last conversation was full of laughter

Wilson revealed to TMZ that their last conversation was cheerful and full of laughter, making the news of Burrell’s death even harder to believe.

“We talked about karaoke. We loved karaoke,” Wilson said. “Anne loved games; she loved backgammon. We always went out to dinner and did karaoke. It’s just shocking. It’s unbelievable to know that someone so vibrant and full of life is no longer with us.”

Wilson said Burrell never mentioned feeling unwell or having any health problems. “She never said anything about being sick. That’s why this came as such a surprise.”

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Only a month and a half before her death, Burrell had attended Wilson’s birthday party. “She loved to dance. Any type of music. Her and her husband Stuart were there and had an amazing time,” Wilson added.

Remembering her friend, Wilson said Burrell’s energy and joy were unforgettable. “She could light up any room. Her legacy is laughter. Anne always laughed. She always wanted to teach. She was a fierce competitor in a male-dominated industry and could hold her own with the best.”

Burrell’s family shared a statement after her death: “Anne’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.”

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