Javier Claxton’s life with celebrity chef Anne Burrell: Online debates Javier’s role in the family, mixed opinions on the challenges of a “stepchild” family, stepmother-stepchild relationship causes much contemplation

Anne Burrell, who died on June 17, was a stepmother to her husband, Stuart Claxton’s son Javier

Anne Burrell, Anne Burrell’s stepson, Javier and husband, Stuart Claxton.Credit : Anne Burrell/Instagram

Anne Burrell’s legacy will continue through her culinary expertise, vibrant personality and her stepson, Javier Claxton.

The Food Network star married her husband, Stuart Claxton, in October 2021, and became a stepmom to his son, Javier. Burrell shared several glimpses of her stepson on social media before she died at 55 years old on June 17.

After a rep for the star confirmed Burrell’s death, her family released a statement, saying, “Anne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, stepmother, and friend — her smile lit up every room she entered.”

The statement continued, “Anne’s light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world. Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”

Here’s everything to know about Anne Burell’s stepson, Javier Claxton.

He was born in 2005

Anne Burrell and stepson, Javier Claxton.Anne Burrell/Instagram

Javier was born around 2005, when Stuart welcomed him during a previous marriage.

While little is known about his childhood or mother, he appears to have had a close relationship with Burrell during his teenage years.

In June 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the celebrity chef shared an Instagram photo of Javier helping her with work from inside the New York home that they were quarantining in.

“Getting a little work done in my Mom’s house!!!” she captioned the post. “My camera man @javier.claxton is the 15 year old son of my fiancé!!! It’s a family affair around here!! #luckygirl #ilovewhatido #shelteringwithmyfamily.”

Javier was the best man in Burrell and Claxton’s wedding

Stuart Claxton and his son, Javier.Anne Burrell/Instagram

When Burrell and Stuart — whom she met in 2018 on the dating app Bumble — tied the knot on Oct. 16, 2021, Javier stood by his father’s side as his best man, and gave a speech later in the night.

Meanwhile, Burrell was accompanied at the altar by four bridesmaids, including her sister Jane.

Following their nuptials, Burrell told PEOPLE the celebration was “a truly dreamy and magical wedding weekend.”

He celebrated holidays with Burrell and Claxton

Anne Burrell, Anne Burrell’s stepson, Javier and husband, Stuart Claxton.Anne Burrell/Instagram

Although Burrell mostly kept her stepson out of the public eye over the years, she did share photos of Javier and Stuart spending holidays together with her. In November 2021, Burrell posted a picture of the three of them smiling in front of a massive Thanksgiving spread in her Brooklyn apartment.

“Just SOOOOOOO much to be thankful for this year!!! A new home, a wedding, a stepson, great family, great friends, good health, great fans and just so much more!!! I wish everyone a VERY happy Thanksgiving!!! Lots of love to all!!!” she captioned the post.

For Father’s Day 2023, Burrell posted several photos of the father and son duo spending time together. She included a picture of Javier and Stuart hugging, eating together and volunteering.

She celebrated Stuart and captioned the post, “Happy Father’s Day my sweet @stuartclaxton !!! You are simply the best!!!❤️❤️❤️ #theclaxtons.”

Javier joined Burrell and Claxton at the Cricket World Cup

Anne Burrell, Anne Burrell’s stepson, Javier and husband, Stuart Claxton.Anne Burrell/Instagram

Burrell seemed to enjoy bringing her stepson on adventures with her, since she posted photos of them attending various sports games and events over the years. In June 2024, the chef brought Javier to the Cricket World Cup, which was held across the United States and the West Indies. Burrell posted a photo of herself, Javier and Stuart smiling in front of the field.

“#theclaxtons hit the cricket today!!! My first cricket match and it was a blast!! One of those gorgeous early summer days..just perfect,” she captioned the photos on June 10, 2024.

In addition to cricket, Javier also appears to be a fan of hockey, since Burrell also brought him to a New York Rangers game in January 2022. Burrell posted several photos of Stuart and Javier smiling in the stadium and near the ice rink.

“Just a FANTASTIC night cheering on MY @nyrangers with the boys!! Hat trick included!!!” she captioned the pictures on Jan. 23, 2022.

They travelled together

Anne Burrell’s stepson, Javier and husband, Stuart Claxton.Anne Burrell/Instagram

The family of three also took various trips together — including a vacation to Walt Disney World in April 2023. Burrell shared photos of her working on the trip, while also prioritizing family time and smiling in front of the Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom.

“What a whirlwind of a weekend!!! Went to @waltdisneyworld , mentored some AMAZING high school culinary students, hung out with @mickeymouse , ate some great food @jaleobyjose, got to see my great friend @chefrobertotrevino and finished up with some fireworks!!! What a blast!!! #theclaxtons,” she captioned the pictures on April 24, 2023.