Texas QB Arch Manning Apologizes to ESPN Reporter Holly Rowe for Laughing About Fake Video of Slap
Manning said his words were hurtful and apologized directly to Holly Rowe after backlash over the clip.
- On Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026, Texas quarterback Arch Manning issued an apology on Instagram for laughing at an AI-generated video depicting Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian slapping ESPN reporter Holly Rowe.
- Following a Saturday night postgame incident where Sarkisian cut off Rowe's interview and walked away, internet users circulated the AI-generated video, which Manning initially called "hilarious" during his weekly press conference.
- Reporters in the press conference room also joined Manning in laughter. In his apology, Manning wrote: "I specifically want to apologize to Holly Rowe for what she has personally had to deal with because of my comments."
- Critics condemned Manning's reaction, emphasizing his status as nephew of Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning. Both Manning and the reporter who shared the video have since issued public apologies.
- Manning committed to change, stating: "I need to do better and will be more thoughtful going forward." The incident underscores broader concerns about online behavior and respect for media professionals.
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Arch Manning issues apology after facing heat for laughing at AI video of Steve Sarkisian slapping Holly Rowe
Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning issued an apology on Tuesday after he came under fire for laughing about an AI video of his coach Steve Sarkisian slapping ESPN reporter Holly Rowe.The video in question showed the awkward postgame interview between Sarkisian and Rowe after Texas came back to beat the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday night. The altered clip then showed Sarkisian yelling at Rowe and slapping her. Manning brought it up on Mo…
Arch Manning's Holly Rowe comments were bad. But people laughing are infuriating
Winnipeg Free Press
Texas QB Arch Manning apologizes to ESPN reporter Holly Rowe for laughing about fake video of slap
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas quarterback Arch Manning apologized Tuesday for publicly joking about an AI-altered video that depicted Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian slapping ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe in the moments after Texas' big win over Ohio State.
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