August 11, 2025: A widely shared video claiming that 23-year-old marine trainer Jessica Radcliffe was fatally attacked by an orca during a live show has been debunked as a fabrication. Circulating on platforms like TikTok and Facebook, the clip, which some versions claim was triggered by Radcliffe’s menstrual blood in the water, has been viewed millions of times but lacks any credible evidence.

No Record of Jessica Radcliffe or the Incident

Investigations reveal no trace of Jessica Radcliffe in media reports, marine park records, or occupational safety databases. Fact-checking outlets, including Vocal Media and Kenyan news site The Star, have confirmed the absence of obituaries, official statements from marine parks, or any documentation of a similar incident. The Star also noted that the video’s audio, including crowd reactions, appears to be AI-generated, adding to its deceptive nature.

Fabricated Video Using AI and Old Footage

The viral clip is a product of manipulated older footage combined with artificial intelligence and computer-generated imagery (CGI). It uses staged captions, AI-generated crowd noises, and carefully edited visuals to create a convincing but false narrative. The name “Jessica Radcliffe” is likely fictional, designed to give the story a veneer of authenticity.

Historical Context of Orca Incidents

While the Radcliffe video is a hoax, real tragedies involving orcas and trainers have occurred. In 2010, SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau was killed by the orca Tilikum in Orlando, an incident highlighted in the 2013 documentary Blackfish, which sparked debate over captive marine mammals. Other cases include the 2009 death of Spanish trainer Alexis Martinez, killed by an orca named Keto during a rehearsal, and a 1991 incident in Canada where a trainer was dragged underwater by three orcas. These rare but tragic events underscore the risks of working with highly intelligent and powerful orcas, also known as killer whales.

Public Urged to Verify Information

The fabricated video serves as a reminder of the dangers of viral misinformation, particularly when amplified by realistic AI-generated content. Authorities and fact-checkers urge the public to verify claims through credible sources before sharing. No evidence supports the existence of Jessica Radcliffe or the alleged orca attack, confirming the story as a hoax designed to exploit social media engagement.