I don’t watch a lot of reality tv or get the US Weekly addiction of living life through others highs and lows. I don’t watch many cooking shows especially Paula Deen’s since they aren’t my cup of tea to begin with. I laughed when I saw her sons got a cooking show purely because their last name is Deen and some have described them as good looking. Paula Deen has taken advantage of every opportunity her southern charm and restaurant background has offered. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for capitalism and making money through one’s chosen profession.
I’ve written before about taking some self-ownership in life – Fat Guy can’t fit at White Castle Sues. When I read the other day, that Paula Deen had diabetes I wasn’t shocked. If she cooks the way she does and let’s be honest she doesn’t look as if she exercises, what could be the end result given her apparent diet, lack of exercise and age – uh, diabetes, maybe, heart disease? I’m not a doctor but the growing concern in this country regarding obesity not only with the youth but the older generation is obvious.
What I take issue with, is her cashing in on the diagnosis by supporting a Pharmaceutical companies drug for diabetics. She was diagnosed 3 years ago. Why didn’t you come out with the news shortly thereafter? Why hasn’t your show or cooking changed since your diagnosis? I’d have been more impressed and interested in the story of her dropping weight, cooking healthier and exercising possibly reversing some if not all of her diabetic symptoms and lived life a little healthier. Instead, she’ll incorporate some ways to cut back in her cooking and tout a drug! Paula had a great opportunity to make a positive change in many peoples eating and life habits from her sugary pulpit and didn’t. Instead she’ll cash in on her fame further. I’m doubtful if she’s really out to help those she’s preached to for years.
A certain TV chef, Anthony Bourdain, has publicly taunted and mocked Paula for her ridiculous show and cooking. Since this news, I’ve yet to see a story break about him not taking the high road. The man who wrote Kitchen Confidential isn’t saying - I told you so??? By not saying anything, it just demonstrates the absurd Shakesperian turn of life Paula Deen is experiencing.
Just because Paula Deen lived a lie and chose to profit from it doesn’t mean we should support her decision or take her drug. I, absolutely, hold her to a higher standard for the position she’s in. Getting angry won’t solve the problem but maybe the dialog will start about being a little healthier in our food choices, going for a walk, using some butter not the whole stick, a spoonful of sugar and not a cup.
Joe is a Chicago based food blogger and his blog is called the Chicago Food Snob. He can also be found on twitter at @chifoodsnob.
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your next Emeril.
These cooks and chefs on Food Network and Cooking channel are, in my opinion, entertainers and reality show stars. I personally cook better , tastier and healthier meals than the whole lot of them. Don't believe me!
Ask my grandsons and their girlfriends and my neighbors and my wife. Funny how they all seem to drop by my home right around dinner time.