CNN faced criticism for two separate on-air errors within days, first involving a tribute to feminist icon Gloria Steinem and then a segment on the late country music star Dolly Parton.
During a Thursday broadcast of "CNN News Central," an on-screen graphic stated that Steinem, who died at age 92, lived from "1934-2006." The graphic incorrectly suggested Steinem had died two decades earlier than her actual passing.
The error was noted by social media users and media observers. It followed another significant misstep by the network earlier in the week.
CNN was forced to issue an apology to Dolly Parton's family after mistakenly using a photograph of a Dolly Parton impersonator during its coverage of the country singer's death. The image that aired featured Las Vegas tribute artist Kelly Vohnn, who has portrayed Parton in performances. Vohnn told The Post that friends began messaging her when her image appeared on CNN.
"I was already heartbroken at losing Dolly, because of how much she has given to me as a woman and an artist," Vohnn stated. "But then to see these images of me on screen was just weird."
Vohnn clarified that she has always identified as a tribute artist and has never claimed to be the actual Dolly Parton.
CNN issued a brief statement regarding the Parton incident: "We regret the error and apologize to the Parton family."
Parton died on August 25 at the age of 80 following a battle with cancer.