Elle Simone Scott, a chef and television host best known for her work on PBS’s America’s Test Kitchen, died of ovarian cancer on Wednesday. She was 49 years old. Throughout her career, Scott advocated for diversity in the culinary world while appearing in some of America’s top TV cooking programs.
Elle Simone Scott appeared on several TV shows as a renowned chef
Born in Detroit, Scott worked as a social worker before pivoting to culinary arts. She worked as a chef with Norwegian Cruise Lines, attended culinary school in New York City and started her career working for restaurateur Danny Meyer, according to Forbes.
Scott later went into television as she became a culinary stylist at Food Network, where she prepared food for on-air programs. In 2016, she joined PBS’s America’s Test Kitchen, which led her to become a known figure in the field. Scott worked on several television projects for PBS, Cooking Channel and Bravo. She even hosted the show 28 Days of Edna, which focused on chef and author Edna Lewis.
Shortly after joining America’s Test Kitchen, Scott was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She used her experience to advocate for increased awareness of the disease.
“She didn’t just test recipes; she changed what representation looked like in food media,” her friend Carla Hall wrote on social media, per Forbes. “Her voice mattered. Her work mattered. She mattered. Elle faced ovarian cancer with courage and honesty, using her platform to educate, advocate, and uplift even while fighting for her life. That kind of strength leaves a mark.”
“We honor you, Elle. Your legacy lives on in every kitchen you inspired and every cook who finally saw themselves reflected back,” she added.
Elle Simone Scott advocated for diversity in the culinary industry
Scott saw a lack of membership organizations for women of color in the culinary world. In 2013, she launched the organization SheChef, which offered networking opportunities and mutual support for women in the field, according to The Boston Globe.
“I think creating positive kitchen cultures is the solution,” Scott told the Boston Globe in a 2018 interview. “I don’t want to spend a whole bunch of time talking about these problems that aren’t my problems. It’s not my job to undo racism. I didn’t create it. It’s my job to create a positive, affirmed culture of women who can navigate.”