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NYC Priest Removed After Allowing Sabrina Carpenter to Film Risqué Music Video in Church
Nov
Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, a New York City priest who permitted Sabrina Carpenter to film her provocative “Feather” music video inside Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Brooklyn, has been officially stripped of his pastoral duties. The decision follows a year-long investigation into mismanagement and unauthorized activities, sparked by the controversy surrounding the video.
A Controversial Filming Choice
Released in October 2023, Carpenter’s Feather video features scenes shot within the church, including moments where she dances around the altar in a revealing black dress, surrounded by pastel-colored coffins. The video, part of her hit album Emails I Can’t Send, carries a satirical tone, showing the singer reveling in the demise of men who had harassed her. Its use of sacred space drew immediate backlash, including from Bishop Robert Brennan of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn, who criticized the parish for not following diocesan policies regarding the use of church property.
The Fallout
In the wake of the video’s release, Gigantiello apologized, claiming he and his team were unaware of the provocative nature of the scenes. He asserted that he believed most of the filming would occur outside the church. Despite his apology, his administrative powers were initially suspended, and the investigation expanded beyond the video incident.
The investigation uncovered unauthorized financial transfers linked to a former aide in Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, which itself is under scrutiny for corruption. This discovery, combined with the filming controversy, led to Gigantiello’s removal from “any pastoral oversight or governance role,” as announced by the Diocese.
Diocese’s Response
Bishop Brennan expressed disappointment, stating, “I am saddened to share that investigations… have uncovered evidence of serious violations of Diocesan policies and protocols.” Bishop Witold Mroziewski has been appointed as the new administrator of the parish, assuming full authority, including over liturgical matters.
Sabrina Carpenter’s Reaction
Carpenter addressed the controversy with humor, famously quipping, “Jesus was a carpenter,” and wearing a t-shirt with the same phrase at her 2024 Coachella performance. While the video’s themes and imagery sparked debate, Carpenter maintained that she had received prior approval to film at the church.
Gigantiello’s Future
Although removed from his leadership role, Gigantiello will still be allowed to say Mass with the approval of Bishop Mroziewski, according to a diocesan spokesperson. His actions, however, have permanently altered the landscape of trust within the parish.
Broader Implications
The incident highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression and sacred spaces. For Gigantiello and the Diocese of Brooklyn, the Feather video served as a flashpoint, ultimately exposing deeper issues within the parish’s administration. As Carpenter continues to rise in the music world, the scandal remains a cautionary tale about the unintended consequences of artistic collaborations with unconventional venues.
