A prominent photojournalism organization has put a hold on its honors for the famous “Napalm Girl” image due to recent inquiries concerning the photographer. This iconic photo, depicting a 9-year-old girl fleeing from a napalm attack during the Vietnam War, was initially attributed to Nick Ut of the Associated Press.
The organization, which grants a renowned photojournalism award, conducted an investigation after the release of the documentary “The Stringer,” which looks into the lasting impacts of the image. It reveals that the actual capture of this historical moment might not have been by Ut but by a lesser-known local freelancer.
The World Press Photo agency, which recognized Ut’s work in 1973 with its own award, stated the documentary prompted deep reflection within the organization. After a thorough review from January to May, two other photographers concluded that the evidence points to their work being the true source of the image, rather than that of Ut.
The organization announced a suspension of Ut’s accolades, stating it was reconsidering the image’s recognition. Two photographers, Nguyen Thanh Nghe and Huynh Cong Phuc, have been brought into the discussion regarding credit for the photo.
In the documentary, Nguyen asserts his conviction that the photograph is indeed his. Meanwhile, the Associated Press has maintained that it will continue to attribute the photo to Ut, although they acknowledged the investigation raises unanswered questions about the events on that day decades ago.
Ut expressed frustration over the situation, referring to it as a “slap in the face.” The girl depicted in the image, Kim Phuc, survived the ordeal and is now a Canadian citizen, advocating for children affected by war.
The World Press Photo agency clarified that the authenticity of the image itself remains intact. Executive Director Joumana El Zein Khoury emphasized that it captures a significant moment in history, resonating across Vietnam, the U.S., and beyond.
