Did NFL legend Drew Brees get struck by lightning?

Catatumbo, Venezuela - Despite an alarming video that quickly made its rounds across the internet, the NFL Hall of Famer is A-OK!

Despite an alarming video in which Drew Brees appeared to be struck by lightning, the NFL Hall of Famer has been confirmed to be just fine.
Despite an alarming video in which Drew Brees appeared to be struck by lightning, the NFL Hall of Famer has been confirmed to be just fine.  © CHRIS GRAYTHEN / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

Whew, that was a close one.

Social media was sent into a worried-frenzy on Friday when footage emerged of Brees appearing to get struck by lightning in Venezuela while filming a commercial for PointsBet.

In the video, Brees is seen standing in front of a camera preparing to shoot in a storm when a flash of light strikes down, causing the camera to fall on the ground.

Brittney Griner and Caitlin Clark headline Olympic US Women's National Team
Athletes Brittney Griner and Caitlin Clark headline Olympic US Women's National Team

Following an uproar from fans worrying about the Hall of Famer's safety, the incident was quickly confirmed to be a marketing stunt, and a part of the filming.

Saints reporter Nick Underhill reported the situation to be a "spoof", and ESPN Saints reporter Katherine Terrell confirmed Brees' safety by tweeting: "I just texted Drew Brees. He said he’s good and that he did not get struck by lightning."

Later on Friday, Brees himself came out with an update himself, revealing on his accounts, "I'm fine...Who dat!"

On Monday, the legendary quarterback revealed that he was heading to a "top-secret location" to shoot a new promo video for the sports betting company and app.

PointsBet released a statement via Twitter saying it knew about the incident, but was not making any big reveals.

"We are aware of the media coverage regarding PointsBet brand ambassador Drew Brees," it said. "We are in communication with Brees’ team and will continue to monitor events throughout the coming hours."

After his retirement from the NFL in 2021, Brees signed with PointsBet as a brand ambassador and holds an equity stake in the company.

Brees has filmed a series of commercials for PointsBet doing nature-filled stunts like climbing Mount Everest, deep sea fishing, and flying to space on a rocket.

Perhaps this is just another publicity stunt to add to the list.

Cover photo: CHRIS GRAYTHEN / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

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