Benson Boone at the 2025 Grammys: The Gesture That Sparked Controversy
Many viewers found it inappropriate for a live broadcast of such magnitude
The 2025 Grammys delivered unforgettable moments, from Beyoncé’s historic win to Lady Gaga’s speech in support of trans people.
However, one of the most talked-about incidents of the night involved Benson Boone, who not only delivered a standout performance but also made a gesture that sparked criticism and forced him to issue a public apology.
Benson Boone full performance of “beautiful things” at the #GRAMMYs pic.twitter.com/bLnURGpOmI
— Keyv’ (@Kvn_bjx) February 3, 2025
An Electrifying Performance and an Unexpected Gesture
Boone took the stage to perform his hit Beautiful Things, which had already made waves at the LOS40 Music Awards. Initially dressed in an elegant black suit and white shirt, he surprised the audience when, mid-performance, two assistants (one of them Heidi Klum) helped him remove his jacket and pants in a striptease-like move. Underneath the suit, he revealed a tight, sequined, sky-blue jumpsuit that left his torso exposed.
The audience applauded his performance, and celebrities like Jennifer Lopez enthusiastically showed their support. However, moments after finishing the song, Boone made a gesture that didn’t go unnoticed—he visibly adjusted his crotch, an action that drew criticism from the more conservative viewers.
Boone’s Apology
While the action wasn’t censored, many viewers found it inappropriate for a live broadcast of such magnitude. In response to the backlash, Boone took to social media to apologize. In an Instagram story, he posted a video of himself lying in bed, addressing his followers with humor: «Sorry for adjusting my jumpsuit so aggressively on stage tonight.» He also explained the reason behind the gesture: «That thing was extremely restrictive in certain areas,» making it clear that the outfit had been uncomfortable.
Benson Boone jokingly apologizes for adjusting his crotch onstage at the #GRAMMYs:
“that thing was extremely restricting in certain areas” pic.twitter.com/q9nRcLRYNM
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) February 3, 2025
Social Media Reactions and Viral Memes
In an event where every detail is scrutinized, Boone’s gesture quickly became meme material. One of the most viral memes used Beyoncé’s shocked expression when she won Best Country Album to depict the audience’s reaction: «Me watching Benson Boone adjusting himself on stage.»
Although the controversy dominated some conversations about his performance, the 22-year-old once again demonstrated his charisma and talent on stage, further establishing himself as one of today’s rising music stars.