Shaquille O'Neal will appear in Papa John's commercials as the company attempts to repair its image following the dismissal of founder John Schnatter.

"If you want to enjoy great pizza and feel loved by the people that serve the pizza, you can come back home now. 'The Daddy' is here," said O'Neal.

O'Neal, who is the first African-American on the Papa John's board, will receive $8 million a year in cash and company stock after signing a 3-year endorsement deal.