Scandal Erupts as NYC Priest Dismissed Over Controversial Music Video Filming

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn has stripped Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello of his duties following his controversial decision to allow popstar Sabrina Carpenter to film provocative scenes inside a church. Investigations highlighted not only the mishandling of the video shoot but also significant financial irregularities.

A New York priest has faced severe repercussions for allowing popstar Sabrina Carpenter to film a provocative music video in his church. Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello was unexpectedly relieved of his pastoral responsibilities at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, as investigations by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn unveiled significant mismanagement during his tenure.

The controversy erupted following the release of Carpenter's music video for her song "Feather," which featured questionable content, including a crucifix adorned with profanity and the singer dancing suggestively on the altar. The diocese expressed its horror at the production, claiming proper filming protocols had been blatantly ignored.

In light of the fallout, Bishop Robert Brennan announced that an independent review conducted by Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP uncovered multiple instances of misconduct. These included unauthorized financial transactions linked to Mr. Gigantiello, prompting the diocese to revoke his administrative powers and assign a replacement.

In a letter to parishioners, Gigantiello admitted permitting the video shoot was a “lapse in judgment.” However, the scrutiny deepened when it was revealed that he had power-utilized church credit cards for personal expenses and transferred nearly $2 million into bank accounts connected to a former aide of New York City's Mayor Eric Adams, who himself is embroiled in multiple criminal investigations.

As the turbulence continues around City Hall with various indictments and resignations in the mayor's office, the fallout from this church scandal reflects broader issues of governance and accountability within both religious and municipal institutions.