NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — Reeling from the fallout of Paula Deen’s recent racial slur admission, two major companies have severed their relationship with the once high-flying chef.
In the latest blow, Walmart, the world’s largest retailer announced late Wednesday that it will sever its relationship with the embattled cooking star.
“We are ending our relationship with Paula Deen Enterprises and we will not place new orders beyond those already committed. We will work with suppliers to address existing inventories and agreements.”
Walmart sold Paula Deen branded baked goods, cookware, dishware and kitchen appliances. This news comes on the heels of an announcement made by Caesars Entertainment Corporation Wednesday morning that it too will end its relationship with Deen.
Caesars operates Paula Deen-themed restaurants at four of its casinos: Horseshoe Southern Indiana, Harrah’s Tunica in Mississippi, Harrah’s Joliet in Illinois and Harrah’s Cherokee in North Carolina.
“While we appreciate Paula’s sincere apologies for statements she made in her past … we have mutually decided that it is in the best interests of both parties to part ways at this time,” said Jan Jones Blackhurst, executive vice president of communications and government affairs for Caesars Entertainment.
Deen’s troubles began when almost two weeks ago when a deposition in a discrimination lawsuit was released in which she admitted using the n-word in the past. Dean has insisted she does not tolerate prejudice, but her apologies have failed to suppress the controversy.
Last week the Food Network said it wouldn’t renew Deen’s contract when it expires at the end of the month. Pork producer Smithfield Foods, with a line of Deen-branded hams, dropped her as a spokeswoman on Monday.
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