HGTV star Hilary Farr has been forced to address “devastating” health rumors after AI-generated images showing her deteriorating health began circulating online.
Farr, 74, responded to the “unspeakably false” report on Instagram on Thursday, sharing a screenshot of the claim that she is undergoing treatment for cancer.
“Tadaa,” she opened the clip, appearing in front of an image with a green screen effect. “I’m alive. I’m happy to say I’m very, very, very, very much alive and well,” Farr continued.
“Look, is this real?!” she said of the “crazy AI stuff.”
The fake report included four images of Ms Farr, including one showing her in a hospital gown and oxygen mask, with the caption: “She may not make it in time.”
“Hilary Farr’s cancer doctor has given a shocking update on her health: ‘She may never appear on TV again,'” the report captioned.
“So, look at this. It’s really, really bad,” the “Love it or List It” host continued in the video.
“I hope none of you take this seriously and realize that it is an unspeakable fake.”
“Well, I’m here to prove it. So, just checking in. I’m okay. I hope you’re okay too,” she concluded.
Many of the TV personality’s fans jumped into the comments section to express their relief at the good news and praise the star for denouncing AI-generated fraud.
“Thank God you’re healthy and thank you for setting the record straight!” one fan commented wishing her and her family a happy holiday.
Another wrote, “Good to see you! This AI stuff is getting old and out of hand! So glad you’re working on it! Enjoy your Thanksgiving weekend.”
“I’m glad you’re doing well!” another Instagram user shared. “It would break my heart to hear any of that was true. Rock on Hillary.”
According to People magazine, Farr revealed in 2021 that she had been secretly battling breast cancer after being diagnosed in 2014.
She has reportedly been in remission since 2022.
