ESPN Host Apologizes for False Story: 'I Regret the Pain Caused'

Public Apology from Pat McAfee to Ole Miss Student

Pat McAfee, a well-known ESPN personality, recently made a public apology to Mary Kate Cornett, an Ole Miss student, for spreading a false rumor about her. In a statement, McAfee shared that he had the opportunity to meet Mary Kate and her family, where he sincerely apologized for the harm caused.

“I can now happily share with you that I recently got to meet Mary Kate and her family,” McAfee said. “And I got a chance to sincerely apologize to them and acknowledge that what I said about Mary Kate was based solely on what others were saying on the internet.”

The apology came several months after the false rumor began circulating, which claimed that Mary Kate had slept with her boyfriend’s father. McAfee addressed the issue publicly, expressing deep regret for the role his show played in causing pain to Mary Kate and her family.

“As a Girl Dad, I was very thankful for the opportunity to let Mr. Cornett know that I was wildly regretful for the part that our show played in his daughter, Mary Kate’s, pain,” he added.

Mary Kate’s father, Justin Cornett, shared with NBC News that the matter was resolved to the satisfaction of both parties. He described the experience as refreshing, noting that it was meaningful to see McAfee take responsibility and offer a sincere apology.

“It was refreshing to stand by Mary Kate’s side and see a man that made a mistake look her in the eyes and apologize with sincerity,” he said. “Now the healing can begin.”

The rumor first surfaced earlier this year, and McAfee started discussing it in February. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to explain his regret and acknowledge the impact of the false story.

“I’m very thankful that they gave me the opportunity to tell them how sorry I was that this all happened and that our show was a part of this,” McAfee said. “I deeply regret the pain that was caused.”

Mary Kate called out McAfee during an April interview with NBC Nightly News, criticizing him for continuing to spread the rumor. She found it unacceptable that an ESPN sports broadcaster would discuss a 19-year-old girl’s so-called “sex scandal” when it was entirely false.

“I thought it was absolutely ridiculous that an ESPN sports broadcaster would be talking about a 19-year-old girl’s ‘sex scandal’ that was completely false,” Cornett told NBC’s Tom Llamas on April 2. She also expressed frustration over the role her show played in the situation.

“I think you all know from this show that I never want to be a source of negativity or contribute to another human’s suffering,” McAfee said.

Cornett shared with NBC News in April that she and her family faced significant harassment. Her home was subjected to a “swatting” incident, where a false report was made to police to provoke a law enforcement response. Additionally, her personal phone number was shared online, leading to threatening calls and texts.

“Having your life ruined by people who have no idea who you are is the worst feeling in the world,” Cornett said at the time. “It makes you feel so alone. It’s a horrible experience.”

McAfee reflected on the ordeal, stating that he learned valuable lessons from the experience. He emphasized the goal of his show to create a happier and better world, even if they don’t always get it right.

“Our goal with this show is to make the world a happier place, a better place. ... I know we don’t always get it right,” McAfee said. “But we’ll never stop trying.”