Arch Manning found himself in the middle of an unexpected controversy this week. Now the Texas quarterback is apologizing to ESPN reporter Holly Rowe.
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The whole thing started after Texas coach Steve Sarkisian's postgame interview with Rowe following the Longhorns' comeback victory over Ohio State.
An AI-generated video later circulated online that was edited to make it appear as though Sarkisian slapped Rowe.
Manning brought up the fake video while speaking to reporters Monday and laughed about it.
"I've seen a few AI edits of stuff, but that's about it," Manning said. "I saw AI edits of Sark's interview ... y'all seen that one? That's a good one, of him slapping Holly Rowe."
The remark quickly drew criticism, with some pointing out that fabricated videos depicting violence against a real person aren't exactly harmless fun.
Nah they gotta get Arch Manning some media training ASAP. This is CRAZY lmaoo
“I saw the AI Edit of (Sark) slapping Holly Rowe… That’s a good one” - Arch Manning pic.twitter.com/YoJFeA4ByI
— Hater Report (@HaterReport) September 15, 2026
On Tuesday, Manning apologized.
"In my press conference yesterday, I made an insensitive comment about an AI video," Manning wrote on Instagram. "There is nothing funny about it."
Manning said his comments were hurtful and specifically apologized to Rowe.
"I have a ton of respect for her and appreciate her showing me grace in this moment," he wrote. "I need to do better and will be more thoughtful going forward."
Rowe accepted the apology and revealed the two had spoken privately.
"Thank you Arch," she wrote. "I appreciate our conversation about this — which will remain private. Apology accepted. We move forward with respect and kindness for one another."
So that's the scandal. A fake AI video, an ill-advised joke, considerable backlash and, ultimately, an apology that Rowe accepted.
