“New York Priest Removed After Controversial Sabrina Carpenter Music Video and Financial Mismanagement”

A New York priest who allowed pop star Sabrina Carpenter to film provocative scenes for her music video inside his church has been accused of mismanagement and removed from his duties. Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello was relieved of his “pastoral oversight or governance role” at the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn, which issued a statement confirming the decision.

The controversy stemmed from Carpenter’s October 2023 music video for her hit song Feather, which was filmed inside the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. The Diocese initiated an investigation into the matter and uncovered multiple instances of mismanagement, including unapproved financial transfers.

Bishop Robert Brennan expressed his dismay over the findings, revealing that the investigation had uncovered serious violations of diocesan policies and protocols. As a result, Gigantiello’s administrative powers were revoked in November 2023, shortly after the video drew public criticism. He was also removed from his fundraising responsibilities as vicar of development for the diocese.

The music video features controversial imagery, including a crucifix emblazoned with profanity and scenes of Carpenter dancing on the altar in a short black dress. At the time, the diocese expressed its outrage, stating that proper procedures for filming inside the church had not been followed.

In a letter to parishioners, Gigantiello admitted that allowing the video shoot was a “lapse in judgment” but has not publicly addressed the allegations that led to his removal. Further investigation revealed additional instances of financial misconduct, including the use of a church credit card for personal expenses.

Bishop Brennan also disclosed that between 2019 and 2021, Gigantiello transferred nearly $2 million in church funds to accounts linked to a former staff member of New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The mayor, who was indicted in September on multiple criminal charges, has been under investigation along with his associates, which has resulted in subpoenas, raids, and resignations of several high-ranking officials within New York City government.