Gabe Bertaccini Reflects on Working with Anne Burrell on 'Worst Cooks in America'
Gabe Bertaccini enters the premiere of Season 29 of Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible with a mix of emotions. As a chef from Ciao House, he co-hosts and mentors the popular Food Network series alongside Anne Burrell. Burrell, who passed away unexpectedly on June 17, was a staple on the show since its inception up to Season 27. Her return for Season 29 had been highly anticipated by fans.
The season premieres on July 28, featuring Burrell and Bertaccini welcoming a group of performers who shine on stage but struggle in the kitchen. The recruits start with their signature dishes, followed by a challenge to recreate the iconic "winner winner chicken dinner." Throughout the season, participants tackle restaurant classics, global cuisines, and the fan-favorite “Remote Control Chef” challenge. At the end, only one contestant will earn the “Best of the Worst” title and $25,000.
Bertaccini shares his thoughts on working with Burrell during her final TV project and what viewers can expect from the season.
A Celebration of Life
As the premiere approaches, Bertaccini reflects on how fans are mourning the loss of Anne. He believes this season should be a celebration of her life and legacy.
“I think that’s exactly how the season should be approached by everyone who loves Anne and is a fan of Worst Cooks in America,” he says. “I watched the screener for the premiere, and the first five minutes were hard for me. But then I saw Anne’s excitement and happiness on camera, which made it even more special.”
Memories of Anne
Bertaccini recalls the deep connection he and Burrell shared. Over the course of filming, they spent long hours together, building both professional and personal relationships. What stood out to him was how Burrell stayed in touch with the recruits after the show, offering support and encouragement.
“She would send me updates about them, and I’d ask, ‘Are you really in touch with all of them?’ She’d say, ‘Yes, I love them all.’ That speaks to who she was,” he says. “Anne was authentic, and that’s rare in the industry.”
Challenges and Patience
Working with the recruits tested Bertaccini’s patience. He jokes that it felt like running a kindergarten. Many of the participants were talented in their respective fields—opera singers, YouTube stars, musicians—but struggled in the kitchen.
“Anne told me before the show, ‘You have no idea until you get there.’ And I didn’t,” he admits. “It was worse than I expected. Some of the things we saw and tasted were horrifying.”
Despite the challenges, Bertaccini found joy in the moments when the recruits truly wanted to learn. “There’s nothing more exciting than someone who puts themselves into what they’re doing, even if they’re not good at it,” he says.
Big Personalities and Fun
The recruits brought big personalities to the show, which added to the entertainment. “If someone was bad at cooking and had a bad personality, that could be a disaster,” Bertaccini says. “But they had big personalities, and it made the show fun.”
He also appreciates the courage it takes to participate in such a public setting. “Good for them for trying,” he says. “I don’t think I would do that on national TV.”
The Remote Control Chef Challenge
One of the most memorable parts of the season is the return of the “Remote Control Chef” challenge. Bertaccini recalls the chaos and humor that came with it. “I have PTSD from that challenge,” he laughs. “We had a dish called the flying spaghetti, which ended up in the trash. It was so bad, I couldn’t believe it.”
Future Recruits and Cooking Skills
Bertaccini hopes to see more young adults, especially those in their 20s and 30s, participate in the show. He believes cooking is a valuable skill that many overlook in today’s fast-paced world.
“Cooking is a way to connect with others, celebrate, and express love,” he says. “It’s a skill that teaches patience and appreciation for the process.”
Final Memories with Anne
Bertaccini cherishes his last interaction with Anne, which happened at the finale. After a long day of filming, he fell ill, and Anne gave him a heartfelt card with a crocheted heart. “It was such a beautiful gesture,” he says. “That’s exactly who she was—kind, thoughtful, and genuine.”
Season 29 Premieres on July 28
Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible premieres on July 28 at 9/8c on the Food Network.
