Arch Manning Apologizes for Laughing at Deepfake Video of Violence Against ESPN Reporter
An AI-generated deepfake video depicted Texas coach Steve Sarkisian slapping ESPN reporter Holly Rowe. Texas quarterback Arch Manning joked that the fabricated violence was "hilarious" during a press conference, drawing backlash. Manning and others later apologized, acknowledging the deepfake and his comments caused harm to Rowe.
What happened
An AI-generated video depicted Texas coach Steve Sarkisian slapping ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe. The deepfake was created in reference to Sarkisian cutting off Rowe's postgame interview question after Texas defeated No. 1 Ohio State 24-23 on Saturday, with Sarkisian instead yelling 'Hook 'em!' and abruptly walking off.
At a press conference on Monday, Texas quarterback Arch Manning was asked about social media reaction and responded: 'I saw an AI edit of Sark's interview. Y'all seen that one? That's a good one. Of him slapping Holly Rowe. It's hilarious.' His comments were met with laughter in the room.
Manning apologized on Tuesday via Instagram statement, saying his words were 'hurtful to a lot of people' and specifically apologizing to Rowe. Rowe posted a response accepting the apology, saying 'Apology accepted. We move forward with respect and kindness for one another.'
Reported impact
Holly Rowe faced personal harms from the deepfake video and Manning's comments about it. Manning acknowledged his words and actions were hurtful and stated Rowe had 'personally had to deal with' consequences of his remarks.
Index analysis
The incident illustrates how deepfake technology can be used to create false depictions of violence, and how public figures' commentary on such synthetic media can amplify harm to victims. Manning's initial reaction treated the fabricated violence as entertainment, reflecting a lack of awareness about the real impact on Rowe.
Governance controls
Manning's apology represents a form of accountability after public backlash, though it came only after his initial insensitive comments drew criticism. Reporter Evan Vieth also apologized for amplifying Manning's reaction on social media, stating he would 'be more careful going forward, especially when it comes to AI-generated content.'
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.