Business
‘More in Love Every Day’
Selena Gomez reaffirmed her affection for husband Benny Blanco with a romantic Instagram Story post on Feb. 25, 2026, captioning a kissing video “I fall more and more in love with you every day my love” — a move many interpreted as a direct response to viral backlash over his barefoot, visibly dirty feet and on-air flatulence during the debut of his podcast “Friends Keep Secrets.”
The controversy ignited after the premiere episode streamed on YouTube earlier this week. Blanco, 37, lounged casually on a couch barefoot, with close-up shots highlighting dirt and grime on his soles around the 1:09 mark. He also audibly farted into the microphone as a joke, prompting laughter from co-hosts Lil Dicky and Kristin Batalucco but sparking widespread disgust online.
Screenshots and clips spread rapidly across X, TikTok and Instagram, with fans expressing shock and some urging Gomez to end the marriage. Comments included “That is disgusting idk how Selena is dealing with this,” “Selena needs to divorce him and find someone better,” and calls to “sign those divorce papers now.” Others focused on hygiene concerns, with one viral post sharing a zoomed-in image of his blackened feet that garnered thousands of reactions.
The backlash extended to memes and resurfaced discussions about Blanco’s laid-back, unconventional habits. Some noted that both Gomez and Blanco went barefoot during portions of their November 2025 wedding reception, suggesting she’s long accepted his relaxed style.
Gomez, 33, addressed the noise indirectly through her affectionate post. The video showed the couple laughing and sharing multiple kisses in what appeared to be a casual outdoor setting, emphasizing deepening love just days before their five-month wedding anniversary on Feb. 28.
The couple, who confirmed their romance in late 2023 after years in the same industry circles, married in an intimate ceremony attended by close friends including Taylor Swift. Blanco has produced music for Gomez, and both have spoken publicly about their strong bond, with Gomez calling him her “absolute everything” and Blanco expressing hopes for a family.
“Friends Keep Secrets” positions itself as an unfiltered, authentic conversation series avoiding typical macho tropes, featuring eclectic guests from family members to innovators. The raw format — including bodily humor and casual vibes — aligns with Blanco’s vision but clearly polarized viewers in this debut.
Defenders argued the moment was harmless in a relaxed podcast setting and shouldn’t overshadow Blanco’s talent or the couple’s happiness. Critics, however, questioned how it reflected on Gomez’s polished public image.
As of Feb. 26, Gomez has made no further comments, and the Instagram Story remains up. Blanco has stayed silent on the hygiene critiques, with the podcast continuing to draw attention and views amid the viral storm.
The episode underscores the intense scrutiny on celebrity relationships, where even minor quirks can spark outsized reactions. Gomez, who has openly discussed mental health, lupus and past high-profile romances, has increasingly focused on selective sharing while prioritizing her personal life.
Supportive fans flooded her post with hearts and praise for rising above the criticism, while the discourse continues online. The incident highlights how quickly social media amplifies personal moments — from dirty feet to declarations of love — in the public eye.
For now, Gomez’s message stands clear: her love grows stronger, unfazed by the chatter.