Ross Barkan, a former writer for New York Magazine and editor-in-chief at The Metropolitan Review, has issued an apology following plagiarism allegations. On Wednesday, he expressed regret and announced plans to take a break for self-reflection. Barkan wrote on X, “Let me first begin by saying I’m sorry. I truly am sorry for the mistakes I made.” He emphasized that his actions were not intentional and acknowledged his failure to use citations adequately and paraphrase properly. Barkan apologized to the journalists whose work he didn’t cite and committed to improving in the future.
Barkan has not clarified whether he will continue his role at The Metropolitan Review. His troubles began in May when Washington Post reporter Drew Harwell accused him of lifting content from an article about Ben Shapiro and The Daily Wire. Following the accusation, New York Magazine added an editor’s note to credit Harwell’s work. Despite Barkan initially dismissing the claims as “ridiculous,” New York Magazine severed ties with him after finding insufficient adherence to editorial standards.
The magazine stated, “After an independent editorial review, New York found that Ross Barkan did not adhere to our editorial standards, and we have updated 67 columns that did not include proper attribution of language, information, and/or sourcing.” The publication added that all stories found lacking attribution were updated and committed to addressing further issues.
Barkan’s fallout isn’t isolated. NPR correspondent Bobby Allyn found more instances of Barkan using similar phrases from The Intercept and Compact Magazine. Barkan admitted to issues in citation over his nearly 250 pieces for New York Magazine and expressed regret, promising to be more careful in the future.
Former controversies in journalism highlight the importance of proper attribution and ethical reporting. Barkan’s situation serves as a reminder of the critical need for these practices in media.