Paula Deen makes a tearful return in Texas after a 10 minute standing ovation.
Paula Deen made her first public appearance in three months in Texas at the Metro Cooking & Entertaining Show and was welcomed with a standing ovation. Deen was so touched that she was brought to tears.
"These are tears of joy, y'all," Deen said. "This is my first time out in three months. … The one place I wanted to make my first step out was in Texas. You are forgiving folks with hearts as big as your state."
Deen was joined by sons Jamie and Bobby for a cooking demo.
Deen's empire struggled after being sued by former restaurant manager Lisa Jackson for sexual and racial harassment.
Deen admitted to using the n-word as well as making racist jokes.
"I did not mean anything derogatory by saying that I loved their look and their professionalism," Deen said.
A Georgia judge dismissed the racism charge, but the sexual harassment charge is still ongoing. Judge William Moore threw out the case because Jackson, who is white, was not the target of the racial remarks.
With all the controversy, it was hard to determine whether Deen will be able to fix her career.
Deen was fired by the Food Network, as well as other major retailers like Wal-Mart and Target. However, since the case has been dismissed, it is unknown whether these companies will pick her back up.
With the response she received from Texas fans, it seems as if Deen may be making a comeback someday soon.
Photo Courtesy of NBC