TV host quits after mistakenly saying Lionel Messi’s father died

Argentine TV host Florencia Peña has resigned after a big mistake on air. She announced that Jorge Messi, father of football star Lionel Messi, had died.

A report from L’Equipe on Friday said this happened during the show "El Show del Verano" on Luzu TV. Peña got the wrong news through her earpiece from the production team.

The false announcement spread quickly but was soon denied by the Messi family. Jorge Messi is alive and is said to be recovering from health problems.

The channel released a statement right after. They condemned the mistake and called broadcasting sensitive information without checking it “inacceptable.”

Luzu TV decided to fire those who made the mistake, while Peña chose to resign. "We regret deeply what happened on air," the station said.

Peña later went on social media to apologize to the Messi family. She said she felt very ashamed for causing them pain. She also shared that she had contacted Lionel Messi’s mother, Celia Cuccittini. In an emotional moment on another show, "Sálvese Quien Pueda," a visibly upset Peña explained what led to her resignation.

The incident sparked strong reactions in Argentina. President Javier Milei criticized Peña on social media, calling her a “commère mesquine” which means petty gossip. He said that an attack on Messi is an attack on everyone.

Many people have been discussing this online, especially football fans.

A post by the football account #TouchlineX, which shared the news about the resignation and apology, got mixed reactions.

One user, #3getKennethed22, said, “This is bad communication from the production team and she doesn’t have to resign for it.”

Another user, #bodex333, pointed out, “You have to take some minutes to digest info before going on air and announce such info without legit confirmation.”

Meanwhile, #Osinbolu1 noted, “One wrong cue in the earpiece… and a simple mistake becomes global news involving one of the most sensitive names in football.”

Peña’s resignation ends what many call a career-damaging mistake, but some have recognized her quick apology and her direct outreach to the Messi family as responsible actions.