Papa John’s founder resigns over racist slur during conference call

NEW YORK — Papa John’s founder John Schnatter has resigned as chairman of the board.

The company made the announcement late Wednesday, hours after Schnatter apologized for using a racist slur during a conference call in May.

READ MORE: Papa John’s founder steps down as CEO after criticizing NFL anthem protest

Forbes said Schnatter used the N-word during a media training exercise. When asked how he would distance himself from racist groups, Schnatter reportedly complained that Colonel Sanders never faced a backlash for using the word.

In a statement released by Louisville, Kentucky-based Papa John’s, Schnatter said reports attributing use of “inappropriate and hurtful” language to him were true.

WATCH: Papa John’s founder steps down as CEO after criticizing NFL anthem protest

0:48 Papa John’s founder steps down as CEO after criticizing NFL anthem protest

“Regardless of the context, I apologize,” the statement says.

The University of Louisville also said Wednesday that Schnatter resigned from its board of trustees, effective immediately.

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WATCH: NFL issues strict anthem policy after years of kneeling protests

1:30 NFL issues strict anthem policy after years of kneeling protests

Schnatter stepped down as CEO last year after blaming slowing sales growth on the outcry surrounding football players kneeling during the national anthem. He remains chairman of the company he started when he turned a broom closet at his father’s bar into a pizza spot.

Papa John’s shares fell nearly five per cent Wednesday after the report, closing at $48.33.