The culinary world mourns the loss of Elle Simone Scott, a trailblazing chef, food stylist, and cookbook author. Scott, who was the first Black woman to join the cast of PBS cooking show 'America's Test Kitchen', passed away at the age of 49. Her career was dedicated to increasing opportunity and visibility for women of color in the hospitality industry, and she approached inequity in the food industry constructively, focusing on creating positive kitchen cultures.
Scott founded SheChef in 2013, an organization that brought women together for networking and support. Her work on 'America's Test Kitchen' made her one of the most visible Black women on food television, and she became a role model for aspiring chefs. However, her life was cut short when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer shortly after joining the show.
Born LaShawnda Sherise Simone Scott, she started her career as a social worker before transitioning into the culinary world. She cooked for Norwegian Cruise Line, catered for renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer, interned at Food Network, and became a food stylist. Her impact on the culinary community was profound, as evidenced by the tributes pouring in from all corners of the industry.
Chef and television personality Carla Hall wrote, 'She didn’t just test recipes; she changed what representation looked like in food media. Her voice mattered. Her work mattered. She mattered.' Scott's legacy will live on in every kitchen she inspired and every cook who saw themselves reflected in her work.
