Texas QB Arch Manning apologizes to Holly Rowe after 'insensitive' comment

Texas quarterback Arch Manning said Tuesday that he is "deeply sorry" for making "insensitive" comments related to an AI-altered video, which showed Longhorns coach slapping sideline reporter Holly Rowe. File Photo by Mike Zarrilli/UPI | License Photo

Sept. 15 (UPI) -- Texas quarterback Arch Manning apologized to sideline reporter Holly Rowe on Tuesday for "insensitive" comments he made about an AI-altered video, which showed her being slapped by Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian.

Manning issued the apology on Instagram. The Longhorns star commented about the video during a news conference Monday in Austin, Texas. Footage of Manning laughing and talking about the video later surfaced on social media, igniting a surge of criticism aimed at the Longhorns quarterback.

"In my press conference yesterday, I made an insensitive comment about an AI video," Manning wrote on his Instagram story. "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 attempted to interview Sarkisian after the Longhorns beat Ohio State in their season opener Saturday in Austin, but the Longhorns coach cut the interaction short. Video later surfaced on social media, with an AI-edited version of the footage showing Sarkisian yelling at Rowe before slapping her in the face and running off.

Manning said he saw the edited video of the slap and said it "was a good one," while laughing at his news conference. Rowe said Tuesday that she has since spoken with Manning, but would keep their conversation private.

"Thank you Arch," Rowe wrote on X. "I appreciate our conversation about this -- which will remain private. Apology accepted. We move forward with respect and kindness for one another."

Manning, the son of Cooper Manning and nephew of former NFL stars Peyton and Eli Manning, threw for 195 yards against the Buckeyes. He is projected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft and Heisman Trophy winner.

Manning will lead the 2-0 Longhorns against UTSA at 8 p.m. EDT Saturday in Austin.