Soap Vet Lauren B. Martin Calls Out Media on Esta TerBlanche Reporting

Lauren B. Martin, best known to soap fans as Camille Bennett on As the World Turns, has come forward in light of some media outlets using her image instead of Esta TerBlanche’s in their reporting of the latter’s recent death. Martin is asking for accountability while also sharing what the mistake has resulted in terms of her own life.

Lauren B. Martin: Greatly Exaggerated Reports

In today’s media world, reporters are tasked with getting the news out as soon as possible. Martin has released a statement on Instagram that in some of the articles reporting on TerBlanche’s untimely passing at the age of 51, a photo of her was used instead.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of Este Terblanche’s passing,” Lauren B. Martin posted on social media. “Esta was a beloved colleague, whose talent and warmth touched the lives of many. Her creative contributions, especially her unforgettable role on the iconic All My Children, will for will be forever cherished and remembered.

“Sadly, I must also address a serious and unfortunate error,” Martin added. “Several major news outlets (including People, Deadline, MSN, Entertainment Weekly, the New York Post, and more as well as and multiple television programs) used a photograph of me instead of Esta in their coverage.

“The use of my photo instead of Esta’s by so many media outlets does not properly honor her life and legacy,” Martin adds. “At a time when her loved ones should be lifted by a dignified, respectful global remembrance, this only brings added distress. Obituaries are cherished by those who have lost someone. They are durable memorials of a loved one’s life and contributions. It is crucial, they accurately reflect them. This era — and the lack of due diligence it represents — distracts from the magnificent light that was Esta Terblanche and denies her loved ones and fans the respectful tribute she deserves.”

Not only was TerBlachne not fully honored in stories that ran a photo of Martin, but many mistakenly believed that Lauren B. Martin had died, says the actress. “The past 24 hours have brought significant confusion and distress for my own family and friends who’ve received hundreds of calls and messages notifying them of (or seeking reaction to/comment on) ‘my’ passing.

“Some professional colleagues even began discussion of ‘contingencies’ in the wake my apparent ‘death.’ It has been a surreal nightmare that worst of all pulls focus from the memorial and celebration of the beautiful Esta Terblanche — that is unacceptable,” Martin states.

“I call on all offending media organizations to correct this mistake and issue appropriate public apologies immediately,” Lauren B. Martin adds. “It is essential that we uphold the standards of accuracy and diligence in reporting, particularly in matters of sensitive as the passing of a cherished individual and public figure. Let us ensure Esta Terblanche receives the honor and respect she deserves and commit to doing better in the future.”