In a moment of raw emotion that left reporters and loved ones visibly shaken, Jane Burrell-Uzcategui, sister of beloved celebrity chef Anne Burrell, held a tear-filled press conference just moments ago in Brooklyn, finally addressing the devastating loss that has gripped the culinary world.
Fighting through sobs, Jane began by saying:
“I still can’t believe it… I can’t understand how my sister — so full of life, so full of light — could end like this.”
The official autopsy report confirmed that Anne, 55, died by suicide, citing acute toxicity due to a combination of diphenhydramine, ethanol, cetirizine, and amphetamine. But while the medical report provided clinical clarity, Jane’s words gave voice to the emotional confusion and heartbreak behind the headlines.
“She was Anne,” Jane said softly. “She lit up every room. She made Thanksgiving feel like Christmas and Tuesday feel like Saturday night. She made people laugh… even when she was hurting.”
Then, the room went completely still as Jane reached for a crumpled note from her pocket — a page from Anne’s personal journal, which the family discovered just days ago.
“I’ve spent my whole life feeding everyone else,” the note read, “but somewhere along the way… I forgot how to feed myself.”
Jane paused, her hands shaking, before continuing:
“We didn’t know how bad it had gotten. She hid it so well. If I could say one thing to her right now, it would be: ‘You were never a burden. You were our joy. We would’ve carried you.’”
As tears fell throughout the room, Jane urged others to speak out about mental health, especially in high-pressure, high-profile industries like Anne’s.
“No success, no spotlight, no strength should ever keep you from asking for help,” she said. “If you’re hurting… please don’t suffer in silence like my sister did.”
What Jane revealed next — about Anne’s final days, and the private voice messages she left behind — is currently under review and expected to be shared by the family in a future statement.
For now, the world is left mourning not just a chef, but a sister, a friend, a mentor — a woman whose fire lit up the kitchen, but whose pain was hidden behind closed doors.
If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 at 988 — the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Tonight, hearts are heavy, but Anne Burrell’s story is not over. Through truth, through remembrance, through love — her voice is still being heard.