Argentine TV Host Resigns Over False Messi Family News

Florencia Peña, the main host of the popular show "El Show del Verano" on Luzu TV, resigned after mistakenly announcing live on air that Jorg Messi, the father of football superstar Lionel Messi, had passed away. This false report caused significant distress, especially as it coincided with Argentina's recent World Cup victory celebrations.

Peña stated she had trusted the information provided to her without verifying it, leading to her decision to step down from her role. The network's owner, Nicolás Occhiato, emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for fake news and confirmed that all employees responsible for airing unverifiable rumors would be terminated.

The Messi family released an official statement clarifying that Jorg Messi was not dead and was under strict medical supervision, expressing anger at the media's insensitivity. The incident occurred shortly after Lionel Messi scored a record-breaking hat trick, further intensifying the emotional impact of the false news.