Elle Simone Scott Obituary — America’s Test Kitchen Chef Dies From Cancer
Boston, MA — It is with deep sadness that the culinary world and public mourn the passing of Elle Simone Scott, a trailblazing chef, culinary producer, author, food stylist, and beloved cast member of America’s Test Kitchen, who died on January 5, 2026, at the age of 49. Her death was attributed to complications from ovarian cancer, a disease she had bravely battled for years while advocating for awareness, early detection, and equity in cancer care. (turn0search27)
Born LaShawnda Sherise Simone Scott on November 28, 1976, in Detroit, Michigan, Elle’s life and career embodied resilience, creativity, and mentorship. She moved from her roots in the Midwest to the forefront of culinary media, transforming both the kitchens she worked in and the broader food community through her talent, leadership, and commitment to inclusion. (turn0search27)
Rise to Culinary Prominence
Elle Simone Scott’s journey from social worker to celebrated chef was nothing short of inspirational. After graduating from Eastern Michigan University, she initially worked as a social worker, where her empathy and community focus were first cultivated. The economic downturn in 2008 altered her path when she lost her job, home, and car. Undeterred, she found work as a cook on a cruise ship — a decision that ultimately steered her toward a career in food. (turn0search27)
Scott later attended the Culinary Institute of New York and built a diverse resume that included culinary production for major networks such as Food Network, Bravo, and the Cooking Channel. Her expertise and warmth soon brought her to America’s Test Kitchen (ATK), where she became one of the show’s most respected and loved chefs and food stylists. In 2016, she made history as the first African American woman to become a regular on-air contributor on ATK, a role in which she demystified techniques for home cooks and enriched the show’s instructional depth. (turn0search27)
Legacy of Advocacy and Mentorship
Beyond her television success, Elle Simone Scott was a passionate advocate for women and chefs of color. In 2013, she founded SheChef, Inc., a professional networking and mentoring organization dedicated to elevating women chefs of color and expanding opportunities in a field long marked by inequity. Through leadership workshops, community building, and mentorship, SheChef provided practical support and inspiration to emerging culinary professionals. (turn0search27)
Her advocacy extended to health awareness as well. First diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2016, Elle confronted the disease with characteristic strength and openness. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy, achieving periods of remission before the cancer’s eventual progression. Throughout her illness, she used her platform to educate the public about ovarian cancer, particularly highlighting the importance of early detection and the unique challenges faced by women of color in healthcare settings. (turn0search27)
Elle also served in leadership roles with organizations committed to cancer research and patient support, including involvement with the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) and other nonprofit coalitions focused on gynecologic cancers. Her advocacy helped bring attention to disparities in care and resources for underserved communities. (turn0search13)
Personal Life and Character
Loved by audiences and colleagues alike, Elle Simone Scott was known for her warmth, generosity, and mentorship. On-screen, she combined expert culinary technique with an accessible teaching style that made even complex cooking approachable for home cooks. Off-screen, she invested deeply in building relationships, uplifting others, and supporting emerging talent in the food and media industries.
Elle’s impact was not limited to the kitchen. Her life demonstrated the power of resilience, compassion, and representation. She often spoke candidly about her personal experiences — from financial uncertainty to health struggles — in ways that connected authentically with people from all walks of life.
Tributes and Remembrances
News of Elle Simone Scott’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from the culinary world, television community, and devoted fans. Colleagues from America’s Test Kitchen, peers in food media, and protégés from SheChef shared memories honoring her creativity, mentorship, and pioneering spirit. Many lauded her role in diversifying culinary spaces and inspiring future generations of culinarians.
One tribute shared on social media highlighted her influence:
“She didn’t just test recipes; she changed what representation looked like in food media. Her voice mattered. Her work mattered. She mattered.” — Tribute from a fellow chef and television personality (Boston Globe commentary). (BostonGlobe.com)
Funeral Services and Family
At the time of this publication, details regarding funeral or memorial services for Elle Simone Scott have not been publicly announced by her family. Loved ones and representatives are expected to share formal arrangements in due course, offering supporters and admirers a chance to celebrate her life and legacy.
Elle is survived by family members, friends, colleagues, and a vast network of culinary professionals and admirers who will carry forward her commitment to equity, mentorship, and joyful exploration in the kitchen.
Legacy and Impact
The death of Elle Simone Scott marks the loss of a visionary leader in culinary arts and media, an advocate for equity, and a cherished teacher to home cooks around the world. Her influence endures in the recipes she shared, the careers she helped shape, and the countless individuals inspired by her courage and generosity.
Her legacy extends far beyond television screens and cookbooks; it lives on through the community of chefs, creators, and advocates she helped nurture. Elle Simone Scott’s life remains a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
