Veteran journalist Roland Martin slammed Revolt, which is owned by Diddy, for posting false information about Biz Markie passing away.
On Wednesday, June 30, there was an online rumor that Biz died since he's been suffering from poor health lately, and Revolt confirmed the fake news.
The folks at @revolttv owe the public an apology for posting that story. I know @Diddy and @Detavio. There should be an IMMEDIATE assessment of their journalistic protocols to determine how that story got published on the site. There must be editorial standards in place. 6/7
— rolandsmartin (@rolandsmartin) July 1, 2021
ANY story that is published must be properly vetted & approved. The reporter who wrote it must be stand by their REPORTING. Stop this weak ass journalism of re-writing news based on someone else's tweet that you never confirmed yourself. Old school: Trust AND verify. 7/7
— rolandsmartin (@rolandsmartin) July 1, 2021
"The folks at @revolttv owe the public an apology for posting that story," tweeted Martin. "I know @Diddy and @Detavio. There should be an IMMEDIATE assessment of their journalistic protocols to determine how that story got published on the site. There must be editorial standards in place ... ANY story that is published must be properly vetted & approved. The reporter who wrote it must be stand by their REPORTING. Stop this weak ass journalism of re-writing news based on someone else's tweet that you never confirmed yourself. Old school: Trust AND verify."
Will Biz isn't dead, he is under medical care. His family issued a statement about the confusion.
"Biz’s wife and family are touched by the outpouring of love and admiration from his friends, peers and fans alike. At this time, we ask for your continued thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."