Pat McAfee Addresses Controversy Surrounding Mary Kate Cornett: Vows to Find ‘Silver Lining’

ESPN Personality Pat McAfee once again finds himself in the middle of a controversy that could have legal ramifications. 

In a recent public appearance, ESPN personality Pat McAfee broke his silence regarding the controversy involving Mary Kate Cornett, a 19-year-old freshman at the University of Mississippi. Cornett has accused McAfee and other media figures of amplifying a false and damaging rumor about her personal life, leading to severe repercussions.​

The Emergence of the Rumor

In late February, an unfounded rumor alleging an inappropriate relationship between Cornett and her boyfriend’s father began circulating on social media platforms, notably YikYak. The baseless claim quickly gained traction, drawing attention from various media personalities. On February 26, McAfee discussed the rumor on “The Pat McAfee Show,” aired on ESPN, without directly naming Cornett but providing enough context for listeners to identify her. This mention significantly amplified the rumor’s reach.

NEW: Ole Miss freshman speaks out after a rumor went viral claiming she had slept with her boyfriend’s father.

This story is insane.

19-year-old Mary Kate Cornett is reportedly considering legal action after the rumor went viral, trending number 1 at one point on X.

Cornett… pic.twitter.com/j7DCmPi9Vf

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) April 3, 2025

​

The fallout from the rumor has been profoundly distressing for Cornett. She reported receiving a barrage of harassing messages and threats, leading her to relocate to emergency housing and switch to online classes for safety. Cornett has publicly expressed her intent to pursue legal action against McAfee and ESPN, stating, “I would like people to be held accountable for what they’ve done.” Her attorney, Monica Uddin, emphasized that disclaimers such as using the term “allegedly” do not absolve individuals from the consequences of spreading false information.​

McAfee’s Public Address

During his live “Big Night Aht” show in Pittsburgh, McAfee addressed the situation without issuing an apology. He remarked, “I never, ever want to be a part of anything negative in anybody’s life, ever. That is not what I want to do.” He further promised to seek a “silver lining” in the situation, adding, “We will try to figure that out and make some sort of silver lining in a very terrible situation.” Despite acknowledging the controversy, McAfee stopped short of admitting any wrongdoing or offering a direct apology to Cornett.

I’ll never forget my first lawsuit 😂😂

We’re good Brett Favre

I never wanna add negativity to a situation#BigNightAHT pic.twitter.com/nQFtoQSefL

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 10, 2025

​

The repercussions of the rumor have extended beyond Cornett herself. Her family has also been subjected to harassment, including a swatting incident at her mother’s residence. Cornett’s father, Justin, described the ordeal as watching his daughter being “destroyed” without being able to intervene. The family has since initiated efforts to support victims of similar defamatory cyberattacks, including launching a GoFundMe campaign to raise awareness and funds.​

Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigations

This incident has ignited discussions about the responsibilities of media figures in handling unverified information and the potential legal ramifications of amplifying baseless claims. The Oxford Police Department, with assistance from the FBI, is investigating the origins of the rumor, which may be linked to a cryptocurrency scheme. As the situation develops, it underscores the critical need for accountability and caution in the dissemination of information, particularly when it pertains to individuals’ personal lives.​