Jordin Sparks Defends Purity Rings on VMAs

Allie @ Gone Hollywood | Monday, September 8, 2008

Not everybody is laughing at Russell Brand at this year’s Video Music Awards.

Jordin Sparks spoke out against the British comedian’s jokes about the Jonas Brothers and their purity rings before introducing T.I.’s performance.

“I just have one thing to say about promise rings. It’s not bad to wear a promise ring,” Sparks, 18, told the crowd, off-the-cuff, “because not everybody – guy or girl – wants to be a slut.”

The former American Idol’s comments were met by an audible cheer from the crowd.

During his opening monologue, Brand had poked fun at the Jonas Brothers, suggesting that they should be taking advantage of their celebrity to win dates. (Brand, himself, is a famous lothario in his native England.)

Sparks has long spoken publicity about holding onto her virginity. She, too, wears a purity ring.

Later, Brand returned to the stage to offer an apology of sorts.

“I didn’t meant to take it lightly,” the host said about his purity ring remarks. “I don’t want to piss off teenage fans.” Still, Brand, whose apology soon morphed into a series of off-color jokes, said, “Promise rings, I’m well up for it. [But] a bit of sex, it never hurt anybody.”