Arch Manning, quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, issued a public apology on Tuesday after facing backlash for laughing at an AI-generated video depicting coach Steve Sarkisian slapping ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe. Manning had referenced the altered clip during a Monday press conference, calling it “hilarious” after Texas’ 24-23 comeback win over Ohio State on September 12.
Manning retracts comments, acknowledges harm
In an Instagram Story post, Manning stated: “In my press conference yesterday, I made an insensitive comment about an AI video. 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.” He specifically apologized to Rowe, adding: “I 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 accepted Manning’s apology in a social media post, writing: “Thank you Arch. I appreciate our conversation about this — which will remain private. Apology accepted. We move forward with respect and kindness for one another.”
Background: The viral moment and Manning’s remarks
The controversy stems from Sarkisian’s postgame interaction with Rowe following Texas’ victory. After the game, Sarkisian abruptly declined a halftime interview due to technical delays, then later approached Rowe for a postgame interview. He yelled “Texas fight, hook ‘em” in her direction before running off to celebrate with his team, leaving Rowe visibly frustrated. AI-generated videos later circulated online, including one edited to show Sarkisian slapping Rowe, which Manning referenced during his press conference.
Manning’s remarks drew immediate criticism from female sports journalists and advocacy groups, who condemned the normalization of such humor. Stacy Dales of ESPN and NBC Sports’ Tricia Whitaker were among those who criticized the laughter from reporters in the room, calling the joke inappropriate and disrespectful.
Reactions and context
Former ESPN colleague Cindy Brunson defended Rowe, highlighting Rowe’s long-standing support for women in sports media. Brunson, who worked with Rowe at ESPN for over a decade, wrote: “While she may not wear a police officer’s uniform or a nurse’s hat, Holly is a helper.” She also noted Rowe’s ongoing battle with cancer and her mentorship of other women in the field.
ESPN confirmed Rowe’s decades-long career, which includes work across college football, basketball, softball, and the WNBA. She received the 2023 Curt Gowdy Electronic Media Award from the Basketball Hall of Fame.
The incident has prompted broader discussions about the treatment of women in sports media and the ethical implications of AI-generated content in public discourse.