Summary of the article for those without a subscription: > "On February 26, Pat McAfee's show, filmed during the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, discussed an unsubstantiated rumor about a student, Mary Kate Cornett, from Ole Miss. McAfee joked about the claim involving Cornett, her boyfriend’s father, and a supposed affair. The rumor, spread on the anonymous app YikYak and quickly amplified by sports media figures like McAfee, ESPN's Adam Schefter, and others, became a viral topic, causing immense harm to Cornett. > "As the rumor spread, Cornett was harassed online and on campus, leading to threats and even a “swatting” incident at her home. She was forced to move into emergency housing and change her contact information to escape the constant abuse. Despite the falsehood, McAfee and others continued to amplify it, even as Cornett publicly denied the accusations. > "Cornett’s family, especially her father, expressed the emotional toll of seeing their daughter’s life destroyed by a baseless rumor. Cornett is pursuing legal action against those responsible for spreading the lie, including McAfee and ESPN. Her attorney emphasized that the incident highlights the dangerous consequences of misinformation amplified for clicks and attention. The story reflects a growing issue of media figures prioritizing sensationalism over accountability, with lasting impacts on those caught in the crossfire.
www.nytimes.com
