Paula Deen is reportedly joining Dancing with the Stars' Season 21 cast.
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According to multiple sources, the former Food Network star and controversial celebrity chef has decided to do the show after previously turning down offers from DWTS producers in both 2010 and 2013, E! News reported.
Deen, a 68-year-old Georgia native, endured about two years of consequences for using the "N-word." She has fought backlash and been called a racist all the while losing many professional brand partnerships and her show on the Food Network. Deen more recently made headlines when she unintentionally tweeted an old picture of her son Bobby in brown face, which prompted the firing of her social media manager.
Deen rejected her first Dancing with the Stars opportunity by reportedly insisting "fat girls don't look good sweating." She then declined to compete on Season 17 in 2013 when her career began deteriorating. However, at the time, both host Tom Bergeron and pro dancer Cheryl Burke suggested the experience would be good for her and could rehab her image.
The E! News sources also claim Grammy-winning music icon Chaka Khan will be appearing on the new season of Dancing with the Stars.
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These two rumored selections add to previously-announced contestants Bindi Irwin, the 17-year-old daughter of the late Steve Irwin; Backstreet Boys member Nick Carter; and triple-crown winning jockey Victor Espinoza.
The rest of Dancing with the Stars' cast, including a few pro dancers who have yet to be disclosed, will be revealed September 2 on Good Morning America. The new DWTS edition is set to premiere Monday, September 14 at 8PM ET/PT on ABC.
About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski