Arch Manning Apologizes for AI Video Joke About Holly Rowe

Texas quarterback Arch Manning apologized Tuesday for laughing at an AI-generated video that depicted head coach Steve Sarkisian slapping ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe. The comment came during Manning's Monday press conference, two days after Texas rallied to beat Ohio State 24-23.

Manning had been asked about fan-made social media edits celebrating the win. When a reporter referenced a specific AI video, Manning said, "Have y'all seen that one? That's a good one," and laughed, adding, "Of him slapping Holly Rowe?" Others in the room also chuckled.

“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.”

In a statement posted to social media, Manning called his remark insensitive and said there was nothing funny about the video. He apologized directly to Rowe, writing that he has "a ton of respect" for her and appreciates her grace. Rowe accepted the apology and said their conversation would remain private.

FOX News host Laura Ingraham criticized Rowe on X, calling it "embarrassing" for a veteran reporter to extract an apology from a young player over what Ingraham described as an innocent offhand comment. Some conservative commentators supported Ingraham's view.

The controversy originated from Sarkisian's brief post-game interview with Rowe after the Ohio State victory, during which he gave a "Horns Up" gesture and left quickly. That moment sparked numerous AI-edited videos online, including the one showing fake violence against Rowe.