Ole Miss Student Prepares Legal Action Over Viral Rumor Amplified by Pat McAfee

Mary Kate Cornett, 18, details harassment and emotional toll from a false rumor spread online and on ESPN, as she seeks accountability through defamation lawsuits.

Mary Kate Cornett, an Ole Miss freshman, became the target of a false rumor alleging an affair with her boyfriend's father, originating on YikYak and spreading across social media.
The rumor was amplified on ESPN's 'The Pat McAfee Show' on February 26, where McAfee discussed the claims without naming Cornett but described the allegations as reported by 'everyone on the internet.'
Cornett and her family have faced severe harassment, including doxxing, swatting, and vulgar messages, prompting her to relocate to emergency housing and switch to online classes.
Cornett has retained attorney Monica Uddin and plans to sue McAfee, ESPN, and other figures for defamation and emotional distress, arguing disclaimers like 'allegedly' do not absolve responsibility.
The incident has sparked broader discussions about media accountability, the impact of social media virality, and the legal consequences of amplifying unverified claims.