Stephen King Caught in Lie About Charlie Kirk and Forced to Apologize: “This Is What I Get for Reading Something on Twitter”
Stephen King has issued an apology after falsely claiming that conservative activist Charlie Kirk had “advocated stoning gays.”
The author, 77, made the statement on X shortly after Kirk was tragically shot during an event he hosted at Utah Valley University on September 10. King later deleted the post.
“I apologize for saying Charlie Kirk advocated stoning gays. What he actually demonstrated was how some people cherry-pick Biblical passages,” King wrote.
The false claim came from comments Kirk made on his podcast in 2024. Kirk had criticized children’s YouTube star Ms. Rachel for citing the Bible’s commandment to “love thy neighbor,” noting that it should include gay people.
He referenced a passage in Leviticus 18, saying, “Thou shall lay with another man shall be stoned to death. Just saying.”
King’s post drew immediate backlash, especially from conservatives. Texas Senator Ted Cruz called King a “horrible, evil, twisted liar.” Responding on social media, King wrote, “The horrible, evil, twisted liar apologizes. This is what I get for reading something on Twitter [without] fact-checking. Won’t happen again.”
Some fans suggested King’s apology may have been influenced by the possibility of legal action from Kirk’s estate. Still, the situation serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying facts before posting online.
King’s quick acknowledgment highlights how misinformation can spread quickly, particularly on social media during sensitive moments.
The apology comes as the investigation into Kirk’s shooting continues. President Trump confirmed on Fox News that a suspect has been taken into custody.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox identified the suspect as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson. The governor said Robinson told a family friend he was involved, which led to his arrest.
This incident shows how easily false claims can create outrage and the importance of careful reporting and posting online. What are your thoughts on Stephen King’s mistake and apology? Share your opinions in the comments.
