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World Press Photo Suspends Attribution for Iconic Vietnam War Photograph

The organization cites unresolved doubts about authorship after a recent investigation, while the Associated Press reaffirms Nick Ut's credit.

Overview

  • World Press Photo has suspended the authorship attribution of the 1972 photograph 'The Terror of War,' commonly known as 'Napalm Girl,' citing significant doubts raised by a recent investigation.
  • The investigation, prompted by the documentary 'The Stringer,' suggested that Nguyễn Thành Nghệ or Huỳnh Công Phúc may have been better positioned to take the photograph than Nick Ut.
  • The Associated Press conducted its own review and maintains Nick Ut's credit, citing insufficient definitive evidence to reassign authorship over 50 years after the photo was taken.
  • World Press Photo emphasized that the image's authenticity and historical significance remain undisputed, and the 1973 award for the photograph will not be rescinded.
  • Nick Ut continues to assert his authorship of the photograph, describing the ongoing dispute as deeply painful and challenging to his legacy.