Paula Deen the Victim of ‘Lynch Mob Culture,’ Says Anne Rice

"This looks like a crucifixion," author says of celebrity chef controversy

For someone who makes a living with words, author Anne Rice appears to have made a poor choice with them when it comes to discussing the controversy surrounding Paula Deen's use of the N-word.

Rice, probably best known for her "The Vampire Chronicles" series of novels, came to the celebrity chef's defense via her Facebook page on Friday — the same day that Deen was dropped by the Food Network — and suggested that she had become the victim of "a lynch mob culture."

See video: Jimmy Kimmel, Conan O'Brien Mock Paula Deen Over N-Word Controversy

Ouch. For the three people who are still living under that rock on this one, Deen was let go from the Food Network after admitting in a deposition that she had used the N-word on occasion.

And just for good measure, Rice threw a Christ-like accusation of persecution into her defense of Deen.

"What's happening with Paula Dean? Is it fair? I never heard of her until today, and wow, this looks like a crucifixion," Rice wrote. "I may be wrong but aren't we becoming something of a lynch mob culture? Is this a good example of that?"

Also read: Paula Deen's Son: Claims Against Her Are 'Extortion' and 'Character Assassination'

Rice ended her post by asking her Facebook following,"What are your feelings?"

So far, Rice has gotten plenty of "feelings" in reply.

Also read: Paula Deen: When Diversity Is Deep-Fried

"Anne Rice, really?!!" one commenter wrote. "As an African-American educator and New Orleanian I am offended that you would assume the Ms. Deen is being crucified! Did you not read the words she spoke? If not, please do."

The response ended, "You disappoint me."

"Did you read the transcript of her deposition?" another voice chimed in. "It is very shocking."

Also read: Paula Deen Re-Commits to 'Today'

Not everyone who responded disagreed with Rice, however.

"For this to come out about something being said years ago is a bit much of a witch hunt," one poster said.

Deen, who bailed on a "Today" interview last Friday as she attempted to quell the N-word controversy with multiple apology videos, has rescheduled her "Today" appearance for Wednesday. 

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