Buzz off: News 12's Alex Zdan goes viral during 2020 Election coverage

A four-letter word put News 12 into the viral stratosphere. It's not what you think.

News 12 Staff

Nov 7, 2020, 11:27 PM

Updated 1,496 days ago

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Saturday may be remembered as the day that President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris were declared winners of the 2020 Election, but one four-letter word put News 12 into the viral stratosphere.
It’s not what you think.
News 12 reporter Alex Zdan was reporting from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and was caught off guard when a supporter for President Donald Trump interrupted his live shot.
“How you doin’, pal?” Zdan said to the person while broadcasting live for all News 12 networks in the tri-state. 
“Is this real news or fake news?” the individual replied.
Zdan immediately said, “Buzz off!” and went back to broadcasting.
In the hours after the exchange, social media platforms featured an edited video with text that suggests Zdan said something other than buzz.
“So THAT'S what it's like to go viral…,” Zdan later Tweeted. “Look I appreciate the social media love, but I told the guy behind me to BUZZ off when he interrupted me live on @news12. But please respect members of the press who are doing their jobs, and telling your stories.”
In a time where journalists have been perceived as enemies of the people, support for Zdan’s energy and reply has been unique.
The moment has been profiled by Heavy, Vulture by New York Magazine, The Wrap and Mediaite so far and continues to generate millions of video views.
Buzz ado about nothing.