Actress and television personality Keke Palmer publicly confirmed her relationship with "Hot Ones" creator and host Sean Evans during an interview with podcast host Jay Shetty at Spotify Beach 2026 on June 23.
Palmer directly addressed the widespread online speculation regarding their romantic connection, clarifying that the pair started out as professional colleagues and are currently spending time together while letting the relationship develop naturally.
The public acknowledgment follows months of fan curiosity and media speculation after the two figures were spotted together in public, including a recent 90-minute dinner at a Brooklyn restaurant where Evans appeared highly attentive.
During the podcast discussion, Palmer expressed her affection for Evans while explaining how their professional connection shifted into a personal one.
"First of all, I love Sean Evans. I love Sean.
Hey Sean! That's my guy," said Keke Palmer.
Palmer explained that they are allowing their connection to unfold at a comfortable pace following their initial work interactions.
"You know, we're hanging out. You know what I mean?
We started off as colleagues; you never know what can arise from there. So we're just taking it day by day," said Keke Palmer.
Prior to these public statements, Evans had already openly expressed admiration for the actress during a media appearance three years earlier.
"Keke Palmer," said Sean Evans.
Evans made the comment during a 2023 interview on Chicken Shop Date when asked if he had ever developed feelings for a guest on his show.
"Very charming. Very charming woman," said Sean Evans.
Palmer had previously embraced the host's admission, noting the mutual chemistry that developed during her guest appearances on his hot wing interview series.
"It was love at first hot wing," said Keke Palmer.
She later proposed a lighthearted moment between them during their show interaction to test their personal compatibility.
"I thought that maybe we could just have a quick smooch to see if there's a spark," said Keke Palmer.
Evans agreed to the proposal during the recording and later shared a lighthearted perspective on the memorable interaction.
"When I'm dying, and my life flashes before my eyes, I'll have that snapshot," said Sean Evans.
