Anne Burrell Had an Improv Show the Night Before She Died, Source Reveals

The celebrity chef had been taking classes and was nearing the end of her term this month. She had announced her upcoming show on Instagram, and the day after her performance, she was found dead in her home.

Anne Burrell tragically passed away on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. A cause of death has not been confirmed, but reports say she suffered cardiac arrest before she died.

The night before her death, the beloved chef performed at The Second City New York in Brooklyn. The show was the culmination of her improv course, which she announced on June 10 in an enthusiastic Instagram post.

"Sooooooo… as I have mentioned I have been taking Improv classes @thesecondcitytc and having an ABSOLUTE blast!!! My class and I are coming to the end of this term and we get to do an actual show!!!" she wrote, extending an invite to anyone interested in coming to watch.

After news of her passing emerged, a source told PEOPLE, Burrell "was in great spirits last night during and after the improv show. Typical fun, outgoing Anne, having a blast." The source added that she seemed fine even after leaving the venue, which is why everyone is "shocked and confused."

In honor of Burrell, the Second City New York has shared a tribute. "We're are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and student, Anne Burrell. She will be missed and remembered as a vibrant part of our Second City New York Training Center community," the organization wrote.

"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," the statement concluded.

Burrell was found unconscious and unresponsive in her Brooklyn home around 7:50 a.m. on Tuesday. Paramedics attempted to revive her but were unsuccessful and pronounced her dead at the scene. She was 55.