Argentine actress Florencia Peña was removed from the streaming channel after broadcasting unverified claims about Jorge Messi's death on air.
7:01 AM
Luzu TV confirmed the dismissal of Argentine actress Florencia Peña from its staff following her broadcast of false information during the program El show del verano. Peña stated on air that Jorge Messi, father of footballer Lionel Messi, had died, without any verification or factual basis for the claim.
The unsubstantiated report generated rapid alarm within the circle of Argentina's national team captain. As the rumor spread widely, the Messi family issued an official statement to deny the death and clarify Jorge Messi's actual health status. According to the family's statement, Jorge Messi "is currently under medical supervision, recovering and evolving favorably within the condition he presents."
Peña addressed the controversy in statements to LAM on Thursday, expressing remorse for the incident. "I am very distressed. This is the first time something like this has happened to me," she said while speaking from her car.
The actress explained the circumstances surrounding the broadcast, stating she received the information through an internal communication channel during the live program. "First, I want to offer infinite apologies. I was on air when they told me through that channel about this news that I don't want to repeat. They asked me to say it, I was in shock. I was on air. I didn't even have my phone or computer. I had no idea what was happening," Peña said.
She directed an apology toward the Messi family for spreading the false information without proper verification. Peña confirmed her departure from Luzu TV as a result of the incident, acknowledging the gravity of broadcasting unverified health claims about a public figure's family member.
Florencia Peña announced on air that Jorge Messi had died, citing unverified social media rumors. The family quickly issued a statement confirming he was recovering under medical care.
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