Fox News uses Patti LaBelle’s photo in Aretha Franklin tribute because of course they did

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It looks like Fox News needs a lesson in R-E-S-P-E-C-T because they made a major flub during their tribute to the late, great Aretha Franklin.

The network used an image of Patti LaBelle during their tribute to the legendary singer who died on Thursday at the age of 76.

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Several folks noticed the inexcusable error and took to social media to call out the network for the mistake as well as their decision to use a not-so-flattering photo of the icon.

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The network issued an apology on Thursday evening.

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“We sincerely apologize to Aretha Franklin’s family and friends,” Jessica Santostefano, Vice President, Media Desk at Fox News told TheWrap in a statement. “Our intention was to honor the icon using a secondary image of her performing with Patti LaBelle in the full screen graphic, but the image of Ms. Franklin was obscured in that process, which we deeply regret.”

Patti LaBelle didn’t comment on the mix up, but posted her own tribute to Aretha on social media.

“I am deeply saddened about the passing of the Queen of Soul and my sister in song, Aretha Franklin. Today the world has experienced a tremendous loss. Aretha was a rare treasure whose unmatched musical genius helped craft the soundtrack to the lives of so many. My sympathy, love and prayers go out to her family, loved ones and fans around the globe,” she posted along with “Rest in peace Aretha.”

Franklin’s niece, Rev. Brigette Franklin, issued the following statement exclusively to theGrio:

“Thank everyone on behalf of our family for all of the phone calls, text messages, social media posts, emails and inbox messages. We are so thankful for the many lives that our beloved aunt Ree touched.”