BEIJING, Nov. 2 (Xinhuanet) -- A private phone call posted on the Internet during which TV reality star Duane "Dog" Chapman used a racial slur several times has prompted A&E cable network to halt production on his show.

Honolulu-based Chapman, 54, stars in "Dog the Bounty Hunter," which is broadcast in more than 10 countries.

"We take this matter very seriously," A&E said in a statement on Thursday. "Pending an investigation, we have suspended production on the series. When the inquiry is concluded, we will take appropriate action."

And Yum Brands Inc., which has advertised its Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut restaurants on "Dog," said it had pulled its ads, effective immediately. "It's despicable," a Yum spokeswoman said about Chapman's behavior. "We are no longer advertising on the show."

In the conversation posted on The National Enquirer tabloid's website, Chapman tells his son Tucker he does not want the young man dating a black woman and uses the epithet "n-----" to describe her.

Chapman, who says he is a devout Christian, apologized in a statement and said he was disappointed in himself. He vowed to do whatever he could to repair the damage he had caused.

"My sincerest, heartfelt apologies go out to every person I have offended for my regrettable use of very inappropriate language," said Chapman, whose long blond hair and leather wardrobe helped to make him a TV hit.

The show follows Chapman and his "posse" as they chase down people who skip bail and fail to show up in court.

(Agencies)