CNN issues an apology after mistakenly airing a photo of a Dolly Parton impersonator during coverage of the singer’s death. Multiple outlets report the error occurred during a segment on CNN’s “Laura Coates Live” following the announcement of Parton’s death.
According to reports, the network showed an image belonging to Las Vegas tribute artist Kelly Vohnn rather than a photo of Parton. CNN spokespersons and outlets cite a statement that the network “regret[s] the error and apologise[s] to the Parton family.” Vohnn also describes being heartbroken after seeing her image broadcast.
While most accounts focus on the mistaken use of Vohnn’s likeness, some emphasize the impact on Parton’s family and others detail Vohnn’s response. Vohnn says she did not give permission for her likeness to be used to suggest she is Dolly Parton. The outlets also situate the apology within broader reporting about Parton’s passing, including how the tribute montage/report was presented on air and corrected afterward.
