Following a career-threatening racial controversy, Paula Deen has turned down an opportunity to appear on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars.
She was dropped by the Food Network and many of her contracts were canceled but insiders say she has rejected the offer to appear on the show.
A source told Us Weekly, “The dance floor is not the appropriate forum for her.”
Emmy-winning host, Tom Bergeron, who co-hosts the show with Brooke Burke, told Us he thought it would have been good for her career if she joined the cast next season. "We've seen career resurgences after the show. People go, 'I remember why I love that person!'" he said.
Professional dancer, Cheryl Burke, has also voiced her opinion that the show would be good for her, telling ET Canada, “I think you’d probably see a different side of her and I think she would be a great addition to the cast. I think coming on something light and fun would be something good for her.”
The 17th season of the show will premiere Sept. 16 on ABC.
image: NBC