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Paula Deen Marks 79th Birthday With Instagram Photo Showing Noticeable Weight Loss

The former Food Network star says the look reflects years of lifestyle changes after a Type-2 diabetes diagnosis.

Overview

  • On Jan. 19, Deen shared a birthday photo on Instagram holding a cupcake decorated with her face beside her husband, Michael Groover, captioning, “I’ve officially taken another trip around the sun—here’s to being a sweet 79 years young!”
  • Fans filled the comments with birthday wishes and remarks about her slimmer appearance, with some asking about a return to TV, though no comeback has been announced.
  • Deen has previously linked her weight management to Type-2 diabetes, telling The Dr. Oz Show in 2015 that she lost 42 pounds and began moderating portions and ingredient choices.
  • In a 2016 blog post, she described shifting to more produce and lean proteins, watching starches, cutting back on sugar and fats, and taking regular walks after her 2009 diagnosis.
  • Recent coverage places the post alongside her 2025 TIFF documentary, “Canceled: The Paula Deen Story,” and recalls her 2013 exit from Food Network following fallout from a lawsuit deposition.