Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Chelsea Ritschel

Aretha Franklin death: Fox News incorrectly pays tribute to singer with photo of Patti LaBelle

After the passing of soul singer Aretha Franklin was announced, thousands paid tribute to the late star.

However, one tribute from Fox News raised eyebrows on social media after it was noticed that the network was using the wrong photo.

During a segment dedicated to Franklin’s passing and her impressive career, the news network incorrectly used a photograph of Patti LaBelle performing.

After the mistake was pointed out on Twitter, Mediate revealed that the photo of LaBelle was actually from her performance at the White House in 2014, when Barack Obama was president.

On Twitter, people mocked Fox for the error, and accused the news network of being unable to tell black women apart.

“To state the obvious: Fox and it’s staff can not tell black iconic women apart. Well done Fox,” one person wrote.

Another asked: “How do you mix up Aretha and Patti?”

LaBelle, who is still alive, was one of the many artists to pay tribute to Franklin, who she referred to as “my sister in song.”

On Twitter, LaBelle wrote: “I am deeply saddened about the passing of the Queen of Soul and my sister in song, Aretha Franklin. Today the world has experienced a tremendous loss. Aretha was a rare treasure whose unmatched musical genius helped craft the soundtrack to the lives of so many.

“My sympathy, love and prayers go out to her family, loved ones and fans around the globe.”

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.