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Fans line up to support Paul Deen as QVC ‘re-examines’ relationship

Posted at 8:58 PM, Jun 23, 2013
and last updated 2013-06-23 21:06:27-04

By Chelsea J. Carter and Carolyn Sung, CNN

NEW YORK (CNN) -- Celebrity chef Paula Deen's contract with the Food Network will not be renewed, the network said Friday, the latest fallout over revelations that she admitted to using a racial epithet in the past.

Deen's contract with the network, which airs three shows featuring the chef, expires at the end of the month, it said.

The Food Network's announcement followed reports that Deen acknowledged in a lawsuit deposition using the "N word." Earlier in the week, the network said it would monitor the situation, but that it "does not tolerate any form of discrimination."

In a statement, Deen thanked the network for 11 "great years."

"... I have had the pleasure of being allowed into so many homes across the country and meeting people who have shared with me the most touching and personal stories," she said. "... This would not have been possible without the Food Network. Thank you again. Love and best dishes to all of ya'll."

Home shopping network QVC is likewise re-examining its business relationship with Deen, Paul Campbell, vice president of communications, told CNN. He stressed the company does not "tolerate discriminatory behavior."

The shopping network features the cookware line "Paula Deen's Kitchen," among other sponsored items.

A Walmart spokesman declined to comment on that company's ties with Deen.