Melissa Peterman Mourns Chef Anne’s Passing
Fans respond to a touching Instagram note about an inspiring cooking teacher lost too soon
Image: Instagram
A Friend In The Kitchen
Melissa Peterman took to Instagram this week with a heartfelt tribute to her friend and mentor, known simply as Chef Anne, who recently passed away. In a post that featured three warm photos of the pair in a cozy kitchen setting, Peterman detailed how Anne first taught her and other students to be better home cooks—and then became “stuck with us” as a beloved companion.
“After she taught us to be better cooks, she was stuck with us,” Peterman wrote. “Chef Anne became a friend. I might not see her often but when I did we made up for it! We ate enough, laughed enough and were probably loud enough to last until the next time. She was funny, smart and passionate. She really cared about teaching people and making them more confident in the kitchen.”
A Star’s Tribute
In her caption, Peterman recalled calling Chef Anne when she and her sister were headed to New York City for a milestone 50th birthday celebration. Hoping for a simple restaurant recommendation, Peterman says Anne went far beyond a list of eateries: she made the reservation herself, escorted the siblings to a star treatment, then capped the night off at a karaoke bar until the wee hours of the morning. “One of my favorite nights ever and she made it happen,” Peterman added.
“My deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. I feel really lucky to have spent time with her. She was spectacular. ❤️”
Continuing The Work
Peterman’s post landed just as she’s been busy with new and upcoming projects. On May 6th, she announced on Instagram that she’d resumed live tapings of the syndicated game show 25 Words or Less alongside host Meredith Vieira. In that post (see below), she invited fans to watch daily weekday episodes on the Xumo Play streaming service and even play along in real time.
Instagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DKVERp-v3P1/
Beyond game shows, Peterman is also looking ahead to holiday festivities. Last summer she shared excitement over participating in the 2025 Hallmark Christmas Experience in Kansas City from December 5–7, inviting fans to join her and fellow Hallmark stars for a festive weekend.
A Career Of Laughter
Best known for her Emmy-nominated turn as Barbra Jean Mathis on the sitcom Reba (2001–2007), Peterman has carved out a diverse career in comedy, hosting and acting. After Reba wrapped, she served as host for the game-show revival Comedy Breakers and won over audiences in Hallmark Channel movies such as Finding Father Christmas.
A graduate of Minnesota State University, Moorhead, Peterman launched her career in improv with the Fargo–Moorhead comedy troupe ComedySportz before relocating to Los Angeles. Off camera, she’s remained an avid cook and often credits her culinary confidence to lessons from Chef Anne.
Community Of Care
Fans flooded the comments on Peterman’s tribute post with stories of how Anne transformed their kitchens. Many noted how her approachable teaching style demystified gourmet techniques and inspired entire households to get creative. A fellow student wrote, “Anne’s classes changed how I feed my family—thank you, Melissa, for sharing this beautiful tribute.”
Though details about Chef Anne’s life remain largely private, it’s clear her impact radiated well beyond celebrity circles. Peterman’s public farewell underscores the bond that forms when laughter and food come together.
As Melissa Peterman continues her busy schedule—balancing tapings, holiday events, and upcoming appearances—she’ll carry Chef Anne’s lessons wherever she goes: in every recipe, every laugh, and every memory shared around the table.
Trivia
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