MSNBC Torched For Giving Alex Pretti An ‘AI Makeover’ In Shameless Segment

MSNBC is facing sharp backlash after airing what critics say was an AI-enhanced image of Alex Pretti, the protester shot during an encounter with federal law enforcement in Minneapolis, fueling accusations that the network manipulated visuals to fit a preferred narrative.

The controversy erupted after viewers noticed that the image shown on air appeared heavily altered. Critics say Pretti’s appearance was noticeably changed, with a sharper jawline, whiter teeth, adjusted hair and a more polished overall look. The edits quickly drew ridicule and anger online.

One user on X wrote, “MSNBC really used AI to fake Pretti’s portrait because he wasn’t pretty enough to be a martyr.” Another added, “They absolutely wanted to use the only image in a nurse outfit for propaganda reasons.”

The altered image spread rapidly on social media, with users accusing the network of trying to make Alex Pretti more sympathetic to viewers by smoothing out his appearance. Several commenters argued the changes were intentional and political, not cosmetic.

“They didn’t want him to look like a skinny pale vegan nut,” one X user said, claiming the network reshaped Pretti’s image to better sell its storyline.

Nicolle Wallace while showing AI-enhanced Pretti photo:

“Donald Trump and his administration are demanding once again that you do not believe your eyes and ears.”

Amazing. pic.twitter.com/dPojKj6QDw

— Western Lensman (@WesternLensman) January 27, 2026

The controversy intensified after MSNBC host Nicolle Wallace criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s account of the shooting while displaying the edited image on screen. Critics said the segment undercut the network’s credibility, especially as Wallace warned viewers against accepting the Trump administration’s version of events.

Her commentary about being told to “do not believe your eyes and ears” drew mockery, with critics pointing out that MSNBC itself appeared to be asking viewers to trust a digitally altered image.

The episode has become a flashpoint in broader criticism of corporate media, with conservatives arguing the network crossed a line by manipulating visuals during coverage of a fatal incident. Critics say the edits reflect a growing willingness among legacy outlets to shape emotion and perception rather than present facts as they are.

The timing has also raised eyebrows. Minneapolis has been on edge amid protests tied to immigration enforcement and mounting scrutiny of fraud allegations involving Somali-linked scam operations, prompting questions about how narratives are being framed and why.

In the end, critics say the image controversy underscores a deeper problem: a media culture increasingly driven by clicks, outrage and political alignment. For many viewers, MSNBC’s handling of the image reinforced long-standing concerns that narrative comes first and truth comes second, further eroding trust in legacy news outlets.

Download the FREE Trending Politics App to get the latest news FIRST >>