Mary Kate Cornett, an 18-year-old freshman at the University of Mississippi, recently found herself at the center of a viral rumor that spread rapidly across social media platforms. This unfounded gossip not only affected her personal life but also led to severe emotional distress and harassment for her and her family. In this article, we will delve into the details of the rumor, its impact on Cornett’s life, and her efforts to seek justice.
Background and Education
Mary Kate Cornett is a student at Ole Miss, pursuing her higher education in a supportive academic environment. She is a member of the Kappa Delta Sorority, which reflects her involvement in campus life. Before the viral rumor, Cornett led a relatively normal college life, focusing on her studies and social activities.
The Viral Rumor
In late February 2025, a salacious rumor began circulating online, falsely claiming that Cornett had an affair with her boyfriend’s father. This baseless gossip quickly gained traction on platforms like Twitter and X, causing widespread attention and speculation. The rumor was discussed on various media outlets, including ESPN’s *The Pat McAfee Show*, where host Pat McAfee jokingly referenced the story without directly naming Cornett.
Impact on Life
The spread of this rumor had a devastating impact on Cornett and her family. She described the experience as life-altering, stating that she couldn’t sleep or eat due to anxiety about her future. Her family faced similar distress, with her mother’s home being targeted in a “swatting” incident, where police responded to a false emergency call.
Legal Action
Cornett has announced her intention to take legal action against those responsible for spreading the rumor, including Pat McAfee and ESPN. She expressed her desire for accountability, emphasizing that she wants people to be held responsible for their actions.
Support and Response
Cornett’s family has been vocal about their support for her. Her father, Justin Cornett, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to help victims of online harassment, highlighting the need for support during such difficult times. The campaign has successfully raised over $26,000, demonstrating the community’s solidarity with Cornett.
Family and Personal Life
Mary Kate Cornett’s parents are Justin and Leslie Cornett. Her family has been instrumental in supporting her through this ordeal. Cornett is currently in a relationship with her boyfriend, Evan Solis, who has also denied the false allegations on social media.
Net Worth
There is no public disclosure of Mary Kate Cornett’s net worth. Her focus remains on her education and personal well-being rather than financial gains.
Latest News
As of April 2025, Cornett continues to pursue legal action against those who spread the rumor. Her story has sparked discussions about online harassment and the importance of verifying information before sharing it on social media platforms.
Why It’s Trending
The Mary Kate Cornett case is trending due to its relevance to issues of online defamation, cyberbullying, and the responsibility of media figures in spreading unsubstantiated rumors. The situation highlights the need for accountability and sensitivity when discussing personal lives, especially in the context of social media and public discourse.
Conclusion
Mary Kate Cornett’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the potential harm caused by viral rumors and the importance of seeking justice in such cases. As she navigates this challenging time, her determination to hold those responsible accountable is inspiring many to reflect on their actions online.