Texas quarterback Arch Manning has officially apologized to ESPN's Holly Rowe after his comments about an AI generated video regarding the reporter garnered backlash from sports fans.
On Monday, Manning spoke to reporters after he led Texas to a wild comeback win over former No. 1 Ohio State over the weekend. After Saturday night's game, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian had a short interview with Rowe that went viral online. Manning was then asked about the interaction and his response to reporters also went viral, as he laughed about an AI generated video edit of Sarkisian slapping Rowe.
"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."
Rowe, an ESPN legend, initially had not responded to the controversy, but former ESPN employees have thrown their support behind the long-time reporter over the last few days. Then on Tuesday, Manning issued an apology to Rowe over Instagram, stating that he "need[s] to do better and will be more thoughtful going forward".
Arch Manning apologizes on IG for his comments about the AI Holly Rowe video. pic.twitter.com/0XQU1bT2cu
— Chris Vannini (@ChrisVannini) September 15, 2026
"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.
I specifically want to apologize to Holly Rowe for what she has personally had to deal with because of my comments. 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 then reposted Manning's apology on Instagram, adding "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."
— Holly Rowe (@sportsiren) September 15, 2026
Manning and the No. 1 Longhorns will return to action this upcoming Saturday against UTSA.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Arch Manning apologizes to Holly Rowe for AI controversy: ‘There is nothing funny about it’
