Paula Deen Surprises Fans With Rare Look Back at Life After N-Word Fallout

Controversial chef Paula Deen, aged 78, recently took to social media to reflect on her extensive career, sharing a throwback image that caught her followers' attention. Originating from Georgia, the beloved cooking personality posted a nostalgic photograph from nearly forty years ago while standing before her restaurant in Savannah.In the caption, Deen reminisced about the beginnings of her journey, stating, “36 years ago, I embarked on a journey that would change my life — I started The Bag Lady with my last $200. Isn't it incredible how far we can go when our backs are against the wall?” Deen launched The Bag Lady in 1989 and later opened The Lady restaurant in 1996, which eventually transformed into The Lady & Sons.Fans reacted strongly to her vibrant ginger hair, with many expressing surprise at her different look from today’s signature platinum hairstyle. Despite facing significant controversies over the years, including a highly publicized racial slur incident in 2013, Deen continues to share her culinary passion through various platforms, including a streaming service she launched in 2014.