SAVANNAH, GA — August 19, 2025 — Beloved Southern chef Paula Deen returned to national television this morning on Fox & Friends, welcoming host Steve Doocy into her Savannah home. Together, they cooked up her latest indulgent recipe: Ice Cream French Toast, a buttery, sweet twist that had viewers buzzing.
Deen’s method, showcased live, involves melting vanilla ice cream and pouring it over thick slices of challah bread before frying them in butter. The golden-brown toast was served with optional whipped cream, maple syrup, and even an extra scoop of ice cream.
Warm Welcome Back on National TV
The segment marks one of Paula Deen’s highest-profile TV appearances in recent years. Fox & Friends teased her feature as part of their “Peach State Spotlight”, highlighting Georgia flavors and personalities.
“PEACH STATE SPOTLIGHT: @SteveDoocy is live with @Paula_Deen in Georgia! 🍑 Tune in for a taste of the South.”
PEACH STATE SPOTLIGHT: @SteveDoocy is live with @Paula_Deen in Georgia! 🍑 Tune in for a taste of the South. pic.twitter.com/tBT0KADrBr
— FOX & Friends (@foxandfriends) August 20, 2025
Fans quickly reacted online, noting how the once-controversial chef is re-emerging in the media spotlight.
“Remember when the Queen of Southern Cuisine, butter-lover Paula Deen, was unjustly shunned, criticized, and hated by the media? Today she was on @foxandfriends. What changed their minds, I wonder.”
Remember when the Queen of Southern Cuisine, butter-lover Paula Deen, was unjustly shunned, criticized, and hated by the media? Today she was on @foxandfriends.
— 🌷Silvina🌷 (@SilvinaFlorida) August 20, 2025
What changed their minds, I wonder. pic.twitter.com/7kazCctzXJ
Why This Appearance Matters
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Cultural Relevance: Paula Deen was a household name for years, but controversies had slowed her TV career. This appearance signals renewed acceptance in mainstream media.
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Southern Tradition Meets Media: By broadcasting from Savannah, Deen and Doocy gave viewers a genuine taste of Southern charm, not just a recipe.
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High Engagement: Within minutes, clips of the segment generated thousands of likes, retweets, and comments—boosting its visibility on social media.