Paula and Kermit, Nov 2007
Paula Deen (b. 1947) is the host of Paula's Party, a cooking show on The Food Network. Over the years, several Muppets have lent her a hand/flipper, including Kermit the Frog and Elmo.
- Elmo's appearance in the February 23, 2008 "Black & White Ball" episode prompted an exchange between Paula and Elmo about Jim Henson.
Paula: Did anybody ever tell you that your eyes are so cute they kind of look like ping-pong balls? Elmo: Really? Paula: Yes, really. Elmo: Elmo thinks Mr. Jim Henson had something to do with that. (laughs) Paula: Well, Jim did good. Elmo: Yeah, Elmo misses Mr. Jim. Paula: I know you miss Mr. Jim. Elmo: Yeah. Paula: But aren't we glad we had him? Elmo: Yes! Paula: Yes, yes! Elmo: Or Elmo would not be here! Paula: Or Elmo would be a twinkle in someone's eye. Elmo: Elmo would be a red rock somewhere! (they both laugh)