HSM Star Tisdale Targeted by HIV Hoax

• Jun 7, 2008 01:46 PM ET
• by TV Guide News

High School Musical "senior" Ashley Tisdale this week was targeted by a sophomoric prank, as an online site or two spread a rumor that the starlet had been diagnosed as HIV-positive. "The story is completely untrue," says Tisdale's rep, Scott Appel.

The false tale claimed that Tisdale contracted HIV through her recent rhinoplasty procedure, and even was "backed up" by a bogus statement from Cedars-Sinai saying, "Ashley and her family are trying to come to terms with this horrible development. They only ask that you pray for Ashley's health and to please respect their privacy." A spokesperson for the medical center denies issuing any such statement. - Matt Mitovich