Arch Manning apologizes for hurtful comment about Steve Sarkisian-Holly Rowe AI slapping video

This isn’t the way Texas quarterback Arch Manning likely envisioned celebrating his team’s historic comeback victory over the No.1 Buckeyes on Saturday.Manning — nephew of NFL quarterback legends Peyton and Eli Manning and grandson of Archie Manning Sr.

— issued a direct apology to ESPN reporter Holly Rowe after he laughed at and engaged in entertaining a fake AI video of Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian slapping her across the face during a press conference on Monday.“In my press conference yesterday, I made an insensitive comment about an Al video,” Manning wrote Tuesday in an Instagram Story post.“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.” The AI video, which made the rounds on social media, spoofed Rowe’s interaction with Sarkisian when he blew off her postgame interview live on television Saturday night.He shouted “Texas Fight.Hook ’em,” and flashed the hand sign before he ran to the locker room to be with his team.

Rowe was visibly frustrated and seen rolling her eyes.Manning told reporters Monday that he saw AI videos regarding the game.He specifically mentioned the video of “[Sarkisian] slapping Holly Rowe” and said “that’s a good one.” After he shared a laugh with a bunch of reporters in the room, Manning added, “That’s hilarious.”Rowe, who’s been at ESPN for more than 30 years, said she spoke with Manning about the matter.“Thank you Arch.I appreciate our conversation about this – which will remain private,” Rowe wrote on her social media, including his apology.

“Apology accepted.“We m...