The queen of butter is back, y'all.
Less than a year after her racial slur controversy that led to the loss of her TV contract and several sponsors, Paula Deen is stepping back into the spotlight with a huge private investment firm backing her up.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Deen reportedly received an investment of between $75 million and $100 million from Najafi Cos., a private-equity company that specializes in consumer distribution and owns BMG Music Service and the Book-of-the-Month Club.
Jahm Najafi, CEO of the Phoenix-based investment company, said in a statement Wednesday that he is confident that Deen's new venture will succeed and he has "a deep respect for the hard work, unique content and quality products which Paula has built around her brand."
"Our investment allows the Paula Deen brand to expand their relationships and the partnerships that are already in place, and support those partnerships on a go-forward basis," Najafi said.
In a statement, the Savannah-based celebrity chef thanked fans "whose love and support have built [her] brands." Thousands of fans signed up on Facebook's "We Support Paula Deen page."
"I hope one day that everyone can have the opportunity to know who I am, as my family, friends and fans do," Deen said, according to the Journal.
Deen reportedly plan to use the money to form new deals and move away from a "pure licensing model, in which she sells her likeness and expertise to others." Deen has made her fortune with business ventures that include restaurants, cruises, cookbooks, cookware and other products that focus on her touting of traditional Southern cuisine.
Deen has made previous attempts when it comes to gaining attention; she's made several public appearances and has launched a Deen-themed store. However. Mike Paul, a reputation and crisis PR expert at Reputation Doctor, said that time is not the answer to solving a crisis.
"Time does not kill a crisis," Mike said. "Working on the crisis from a humble perspective kills it. I think she's exposed and the investors are exposed."
What do you think of Paula Deen's plan for a comeback? Do you think she will succeed?
