Paula Deen's Teary 'Today' Show Visit - Watch Now

Paula Deen made an appearance on the Today show to defend and apologize for her actions on Wednesday (June 26) in New York City.

“I have never … with any intention, hurt anybody on purpose, and I never would.” the 66-year-old told Matt Lauer about being under fire for using derogatory language.

“It’s hard for me to even find the word that I was feeling — I was overwhelmed,” Paula said about her feelings last week. “I was in a state of shock. Would I have fired me? Knowing me? No. … I am so very thankful for the partners I have who believe in me.”

“If there’s anyone out there that has never said something that they wish they could take back, if you’re out there, please pick up that stone and throw it so hard at my head that it kills me. Please. I want to meet you,” Paula concluded. “I’m not changing — there’s someone evil out there who saw what I worked for, and wanted it.”

Check out the entire interview below…