"We are appalled and apologize that this occurred": KTLA issues an apology after accidently posting 'N-Word' on X 

On April 11, 2025, KTLA, a news station based in Los Angeles, faced strong public criticism after its official X account (formerly Twitter) posted a one-word tweet that contained the N-word. The tweet was quickly deleted, but not before users took screenshots and shared it widely. KTLA later issued an apology and said it was a “technical error.”

The station claimed the post was not meant to go live and happened while adding the slur to a list of muted words. The mute feature on X allows users or page admins to block certain words from showing up in their feeds. Still, many people on social media found this explanation hard to believe.

KTLA has promised to investigate the matter. A spokesperson said the station regrets the mistake and is taking the incident seriously. But many people are not satisfied with the explanation or apology. KTLA posted saying:

"KTLA experienced a technical error while adding language filters to our social media accounts, resulting in an offensive word being accidentally shared. We are appalled and apologize that this occurred."

Many people didn't accept the apology and took to X to voice their opinions.

"The term was highly offensive and should not have been posted on your platform." said a netizen on X

"I need some more motivation to expose you racist. Thanks." said a netizen

"Looks like an intern needs to lose their position" said another netizen

"Someone had to write that, check it, and physically click post, then run back, and physically delete it. STOP LYING." remarked another netizen

"Please educate me how a technical error leads to a racial slur." said another netizen

What exactly happened on the KTLA X account?

The KTLA X account posted the N-word with no other text or context. The post was visible for only a short time before being deleted. Even so, screenshots were taken and shared across social media platforms. This led to fast and widespread backlash.

The station said the tweet was the result of a technical problem. According to KTLA, someone was adding words to a mute list on X, and the slur was posted by accident. The explanation caused confusion, as users pointed out that adding a word to a block list does not involve posting it publicly.

Many questioned how such a thing could happen. One social media user said, “Someone had to write that, check it, and physically click post.” Others said the post could not have gone up unless there was human error or poor management.

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What does this mean for KTLA moving forward?

KTLA said it will review how the mistake happened and make sure it does not happen again. The station has not said whether any staff members were suspended or fired because of the tweet. It has also not shared details on what changes, if any, will be made to its social media team.

This event may damage the station's reputation. KTLA is a well-known news outlet in the Los Angeles area. The tweet, even though deleted, has been seen by thousands. The screenshots are still being shared.

Moving forward, KTLA will need to show that it can take responsibility. Some people say the station should be more transparent. Others say real change is needed behind the scenes, not just in public statements.

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The accidental post of a racial slur on ’s official X account has caused serious concern. The station’s claim of a “technical error” is not being accepted by many in the public. People are asking for accountability and change. KTLA has said it will investigate and make improvements. It remains to be seen if the station will take steps that rebuild trust with the community.

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