Paula Deen re-scheduled for ‘Today’ interview Wednesday after no-show last week

By The Associated Press
June 24 2013 07:43 AM

CP23957835 — FILE - This 2006 file photo originally released by the Food Network shows celebrity chef Paula Dean. Paula Deen’s fans are serving up deep-fried outrage to the Food Network for its decision to dump the Southern comfort food queen after she acknowledged using racial slurs in the past. (AP Photo/ Food Network, file)

NEW YORK, N.Y. – Paula Deen will appear on NBC’s “Today” show on Wednesday, according to host Matt Lauer.

Lauer’s announcement came Monday, three days after the celebrity cook abruptly cancelled on the morning show, where she was scheduled to answer questions about her past use of racial slurs.

Lauer said Deen “told us she will be here this time.”

While questioned last month in a discrimination lawsuit, the 66-year-old Food Network star admitted to using the N-word in the past, but she insisted she and her family do not tolerate prejudice.

Deen issued videotaped apologies Friday afternoon seeking forgiveness from fans and critics.

But hours later, the Food Network announced it would not renew her contract when it ends this month.

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