Paula Deen Fired from Food Network
The
reign of the Queen of Southern Cooking has come to any end. Food Network
recently announced that it would not be renewing Paula Deen’s contact when it
expired at the end of June. Deen was a feature chef on the network for 11
years. She was known for her big smile, southern charm, and love of rich food. So,
what could end such a glorious reign?
Paula
Deen got her start with her catering business in 1989, The Bag Lady, which she ran from her home kitchen. Her next venture
was The Lady and Sons Restaurant.
Deen opened this restaurant in Savannah, Georgia in 1996 with her two sons,
Bobby and Jamie Deen. Like The Bag Lady, her restaurant was a
success. The Lady and Sons gained
nationwide attention when it received the “Most Memorable Meal” award in 1999
from USA Today.
Paula
Deen’s next move was to begin publishing cook books. These too were extremely successful.
They led to Paula’s introduction to television. She landed a spot on the Food
Network in 2002. As a result, Paula Deen became a household word. It seemed
nothing could stop this Southern belle’s reign over Food Network and Southern
cuisine.
Deen’s
downfall came after allegations of racism. The cooking star was accused of
using racial jokes and slurs at her restaurant in Savannah. Deen recently
admitted that she was guilty of the accusations. In response, Food Network
decided not to renew the celebrity chef’s contact.
As
an avid fan of both the Food Network and Paula Deen, I am shocked to learn of
the charismatic chef’s fall from grace. I would have never guessed that behind
that beautiful smile was a darker side. I too am a Southerner, and I am also an
African American. I know that using racism was a part of the era in which Deen
was raised. However, I am shocked to learn of Deen’s behavior. I would have
thought that in this day and time she was be above such behavior. There have
been several African American guests on Deen’s show like Pat and Gina Neely.
So, I wouldn’t have thought that she was a racist. Is she a racist or a victim
of the times in which she was raised? Only Paula Deen can answer this question.
Should
Food Network have fired Paula Deen? Some fans believe the famous chef should
have been given a second chance. Others are in agreement with the network’s
decision. I, for one, know that in order to protect themselves the Food Network
could not keep Paula Deen after her admission. Would I have continued to watch
her show in she had remained on Food Network? Although I loved her and her
food, I have to admit I would not.
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