Paula Deen has been cleared of racial discrimination charges, after falling spectacularly from grace over recent months. The embattled celebrity chef admitted during the trial that she had previously used the N-word, leading to a string of her business deals being axed by companies who didn’t want to be affiliated with her.
Lisa Jackson had alleged that Paula and her brother Bubba Hiers had subjected her to years of sexual harassment and racist behaviour – but judge William T. Moore, Jr. has ruled that she had no standing to claim racial discrimination, because she is white.
Paula Deen in an emotional interview (screengrab)
He said that Jackson is an “accidental victim” of any racist conduct. However, the sexual harassment claims are still being considered, according to Gossip Cop.
Deen has not publicly commented since the case was thrown out. She was recently reported to have turned down an appearance on Dancing With The Stars, after bosses apparently thought her new infamy would translate into high ratings.
