College football star gives groveling apology after laughing at AI video of coach slapping female reporter
University of Texas quarterback Arch Manning issued an apology on social media following criticism he received for laughing at an artificial intelligence-generated video that depicted Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian striking ESPN reporter Holly Rowe.
The incident began Tuesday when Manning posted a statement to his Instagram Story addressing remarks he made during a media availability one day prior, as reported by ESPN.
“In my press conference yesterday, I made an insensitive comment about an AI video,” Manning wrote. “There is nothing funny about it. It's easy to say I didn't mean it, but I know my words and actions were hurtful to a lot of people. I do not take that lightly and am deeply sorry for that.”
The online backlash stemmed from comments Manning made on Monday when asked if he had viewed any fan-edited clips circulating online after Texas secured a 24-23 victory over Ohio State in Austin.
“I’ve seen a few AI edits of stuff, but that's about it. I saw an AI edit of Sark’s interview,” Manning told reporters on Monday while laughing. “Have y'all seen that one? That’s a good one. Of him slapping Holly Rowe? It’s hilarious.”
The fabricated clip parodied a post-game interaction during which Sarkisian abruptly ended an on-field interview with Rowe by shouting, “Texas fight. Hook ‘em!” and walking away. In the deepfake version, the coach shouts the same phrase before striking Rowe, causing her to fall to the turf.
Following the public reaction to his remarks, Manning specifically directed his apology to the veteran broadcaster.
“I specifically want to apologize to Holly Rowe for what she has personally had to deal with because of my comments,” Manning said. “ have a ton of respect for her and appreciate her showing me grace in this moment. I need to do better and will be more thoughtful going forward.”
Rowe told her followers on X that she and the quarterback had spoken privately and that she accepted the apology.
“Thank you Arch,” Rowe posted. “I appreciate our conversation about this -- which will remain private. Apology accepted. We move forward with respect and kindness for one another.”
During the game that preceded the incident, Manning completed 23 of 37 passes for 195 yards and added 24 rushing yards in the team’s comeback win over Ohio State.
