First Black woman chef on ‘America’s Test Kitchen’ dies from ovarian cancer at 49

Elle Simone Scott, a celebrated chef, food stylist and television host on PBS’s America’s Test Kitchen, has died after a courageous fight with ovarian cancer.

She was 49.

Her death marks the loss of a barrier‑breaking figure who reshaped food media and expanded representation on one of public television’s most recognizable cooking programs.

Chef Elle Simone Scott: A Historic Presence on Public Television

Scott joined America’s Test Kitchen in 2016 and became the first Black woman to appear regularly on the show. She quickly emerged as a trusted voice, taking on roles as test cook, host and executive editor. Because she brought authority, warmth and precision to every segment, she became a standout presence for viewers nationwide.

Chef Elle Simone Scott: A Multifaceted Career Rooted in Creativity

Beyond television, Scott built a wide‑ranging career. She authored two bestselling cookbooks Boards (2022) and Food Gifts (2024) and created The Walk‑In, a podcast that spotlighted the personal stories of culinary professionals. She also founded SheChef, a mentorship and networking organization supporting underrepresented cooks and food creatives.

A Career Shift

Scott’s path to the kitchen began after the 2008 recession, when she lost her job as a social worker. She later said the upheaval pushed her to pursue work that brought her peace. That decision led her to the Culinary Institute of New York, internships at Food Network and production roles with Bravo and the Cooking Channel.

Deep Roots and a Commitment to Community

In an interview with WUBR, Scott credited her great‑grandmother Ann for shaping her understanding of food as both emotional and political. She said those early lessons taught her that cooking could carry history, identity and purpose.

Because she once relied on SNAP benefits, Scott became a vocal advocate for food access. She spoke openly about the importance of nutrition programs and pushed for better support in Black and brown communities.

Elle Simone Scott: A Public and Purposeful Cancer Journey

Shortly after moving to Boston for America’s Test Kitchen, Scott was diagnosed with stage 1 ovarian cancer. She shared her symptoms and treatment experiences publicly, calling herself a “thriver.” Although she went into remission, the cancer later returned.

Instagram

In her WBUR interview, she reflected on how illness reshaped her priorities: “Having cancer, or just having a terminal disease in general, really makes you think about your life and how you want to live it for whatever time you have left.” She said she promised the Creator that if she survived, she would use her life to create change.

A Legacy That Will Continue to Shape Food Media

Scott often said she wanted girls of color to see themselves reflected in the culinary world. She believed representation created possibility, and she worked to ensure future generations would not feel invisible.

Her influence endures through her cookbooks, her community work and the many people she inspired.