![](https://static.independent.co.uk/2023/02/11/21/SHOWBIZ%20Brits%20%2021271511.jpg?width=1200&auto=webp)
Ellie Goulding has defended Tom Grennan after the singer was criticised over an “awkward” and “inappropriate” question he asked Goulding at the Brits.
The 2023 Brit Awards, hosted by Mo Gilligan, took place on Saturday night (11 February) at London’s O2 Arena.
Among the big winners of the night were Harry Styles – who won in all four of his nominated categories, including Best Album and Artist of the Year – and Wet Leg.
You can find the biggest talking points from the awards ceremony here, and the full list of winners here.
Goulding, 36, and Grennan, 27, presented the award for Best New Artist together.
Appearing on stage, Grennan asked: “Don’t I look good next to Ellie Goulding?”
Gesturing to the singer’s outfit, he said: “I love what you’re doing. Are they your real boobs?” Goulding was wearing a black top that was designed to appear sculpted to her chest.
“No, these are not,” replied the “Burn” singer who fans thought looked “uncomfortable” at the question.
She quipped: “I wish. Mine are a lot further apart. Sadly.” Grennan then apologised.
Grennan was criticised for his question by viewers on social media.
“Did this guy just ask Ellie Goulding if those are her real boobs?” questioned one person. Another added: “Did Tom Grennan just ask Ellie Goulding if they were her real boobs?! What the actual f***.”
“Tom Grennan asking Ellie Goulding about her boobs,” said a third person. “It’s such a car crash.”
Another added: “Tom Grennan asking Ellie Goulding if they were her real boobs while presenting an award was super weird, uncomfortable and creepy.”
Goulding has since posted on Twitter addressing the incident. The singer wrote: “A word on Brit/tit gate...I was wearing a beatufiul breastplate, thank you all for appreciating it ;)
“My friend Tom Grennan is 100% an ally and we were having a bit of fun. No offence taken, no harm intended – and no other interpretations necessary x.”
The Independent has contacted representatives of Goulding and Grennan for further comment.
Catch up on what happened at the Brits here.