Paula Deen Book Canceled, But Fan Support Remains Strong

Paula Deen’s book has been canceled despite topping the charts in pre-publication, and Random House is the latest company to publicly shun Deen as the reverberations of a racism scandal sever her business relationships.

Paula Deen’s book was to be titled Paula Deen’s New Testament: 250 Favorite Recipes, All Lightened Up, part of her efforts to make her country style home cooking more heart-friendly after a diabetes diagnosis.

On Thursday, Paula Deen’s New Testament: 250 Favorite Recipes, All Lightened Up hit the top spot, but the brighter news was short-lived for the embattled cook’s camp.

Thursday, Random House’s Ballantine Books released a statement through spokesman Stuart Applebaum, who said simply:

“After careful consideration, Ballantine Books has made the difficult decision to cancel the publication of Paula Deen’s New Testament: 250 Favorite Recipes, All Lightened Up.”

The New York Times obtained further information from an unnamed party with knowledge of the decision to cancel Paula Deen’s upcoming book.

According to the spy, Random House was forced to join ranks with other big names in firing Paula Deen, deeming the book’s publication too risky despite massive fan support:

When Walmart, Target and J. C. Penney all announced they are discontinuing their Paula Deen business, including books, it is awfully tough to stay the course of a publication. It was a business decision.

On the subject of whether the book’s cancellation would force Paula Deen to return any money, Applebaum simply said that was “why God invented lawyers.”

While Random House’s decision on Paula Deen’s book and the subsequent cancellation was likely inevitable, fans over on Paula Deen’s Facebook page have come out in droves to support her, saying:

“I think you are getting treated horribly…I love your recipes”

“Hang in there Paula. I hate that people are being so mean to you. Everyone makes mistakes but you shouldn’t have to pay for it forever. We Love you and your food.”

“HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND Paula!! I can’t stand what is going on with you- who cares… we live in a society where it’s commonplace to swear on the radio and virtually everywhere… there’s a lot worse you could do…. I am still a huge fan!!!”

“Paula, Just want you to know there are people who are standing up for you. You are forgiven. Keep on fighting. You are the best!”

Do you think Paula Deen’s book cancellation was a step too far for Random House, or is the move the right one?