Paula Deen is cutting ties with the agent who helped make her a star.

Deen's agent, Barry Weiner, spent 10 years helping her build a $17 million media and merchandising empire that has largely crumbled in the wake of her admission that she used the N-word in the past.

In a statement, Deen's spokesperson gave no reason for the split from her agent, who was always seen at her side. The statement said:  "Paula Deen has separated from her agent. She and her family thank him for the tireless effort and dedication over the many years."