Melba Wilson Remembers Her Last Conversation with Anne Burrell Before Her “Devastating” Death at 55
LOS ANGELES / June 19, 2025 – Celebrity chef and restaurateur Melba Wilson opened up about her final conversation with close friend Anne Burrell, who unexpectedly passed away at the age of 55 on June 17. The two had been in touch just a week before, and Wilson described their last few interactions as full of laughter, karaoke, and camaraderie people.com+1people.com+1.
A Surprising Loss
Burrell, best known as a host on Worst Cooks in America, was found unconscious at her Brooklyn home and was believed to have suffered cardiac arrest, according to a 911 report facebook.com+9people.com+9pagesix.com+9.
As Vibrant as Ever
Reflecting on their final talks, Wilson said, “Anne was fine.” They spoke about karaoke, backgammon, and life—just like they often did pagesix.com+3people.com+3tmz.com+3. Wilson also noted that she saw Burrell in high spirits at her birthday gathering just six weeks earlier, where she was dancing and full of life tmz.com+8pagesix.com+8people.com+8.
A Radiant Personality
Burrell was celebrated for her exuberance and generosity—she once helped distribute hundreds of turkeys in New York before Thanksgiving 2024 tmz.com+9people.com+9people.com+9. Wilson remembered her as someone who “could light up any room” and had no known health issues behind the scenes—making her death all the more shocking soapcentral.com+3people.com+3pagesix.com+3.
Shocked and Heartbroken
Wilson described the loss as “devastating,” emphasizing how unexpected it was, noting that Burrell “never mentioned anything about being sick.” The thought that a healthy, vibrant woman could suddenly pass away was deeply painful soapcentral.com+2people.com+2pagesix.com+2.
Legacy of Light and Laughter
Their friendship began on the set of Beat Bobby Flay, when Burrell first expressed interest in Wilson’s renowned restaurant. That moment sparked a bond marked by mutual respect and joy people.com. Wilson said Burrell’s legacy will be defined not only by her fierce competitiveness in a male-dominated industry, but also by her generosity, joy, and iconic laughter people.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1.
In short:
- Wilson had spoken with Burrell roughly one week prior to her tragic passing.
- Burrell seemed completely healthy and joyful—enjoying karaoke, dancing, and board games.
- Her unexpected death due to reported cardiac arrest shocked all who knew her.
- Loved ones, including Wilson, mourn the passing of a woman who radiated warmth, spirit, and generosity.
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