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BETH CHAPMAN | Guest Columnist

I’ve met many famous people throughout my career—presidents, movie stars, authors, Miss Americas, singers, athletes, politicians and more. Some have been impressive, others not so much. Some have had great personalities and seemed genuine, while others were as fake as the thick makeup they wore.

Some celebrities are genuine to the core—humble, genuine and grateful to God for their followers and fans.

One such celebrity (though she doesn’t see herself as one) is Alabama’s own Brenda Gantt.

Famous for her homemade biscuits, downhome southern cooking and love for her faith and family, Gantt became an internet sensation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The retired schoolteacher and grandmother began posting cooking videos from her home kitchen at the request of young husbands in her church. They wanted their wives to learn to bake biscuits, and before long, her videos went viral.

Since then, Gantt has posted hundreds of videos and garnered more than two million Facebook followers. Homespun stories with her thick southern drawl reels fans in as she shares stories of her faith, food and cast-iron skillet skills. She has appeared on national television shows and has been on the cover of multiple magazines.

Her daily schedule starts at 4 a.m. with a goal to always to be a lifter—something she encourages others to be. And an encourager she is.

The four times I’ve been with her left me feeling so much happier and more inspired just being in her presence. She just has that kind of spirit about her and that kind of effect on people.

Gantt’s first cookbook, “It’s Gonna Be Good Ya’ll” was released in November and was a huge hit. Her second cookbook, “Linger Around the Table Ya’ll” is coming out soon.

In a world where celebrities aren’t always what they’re cracked up to be, we need to support those who are.

Just like we support Alabama businesses, we need to support Alabama celebrities and authors, and here’s one I hope you’ll join me in supporting.