Happy birthday! Paula Deen turns 79 today

  • By Lori Macatee
  • Washington
  • Last updated on

The iconic and legendary chef turns 79 on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.
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Paula Deen is celebrating her 79th birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, she is one of the most acclaimed chefs of her generation.

Popular chef-television host Paula Deen (Paula's Home Cooking, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of herself hidden from view. At 79th birthday, she remains a woman of many facets.

Deen, a cultural icon

Born Paula Ann Hiers Deen in Albany on January 19, 1947, her career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in American history. Deen's not just a great chef, she's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business woman. At this point in her career, there seems to be little Paula hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Paula Deen as she promises more to come. After all, she's only 79.

Happy Birthday, Paula, you're the best!

Paula Deen career in pictures

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