Twitter outraged after bishop gropes Ariana Grande at Aretha Franklin's funeral

Late singer Aretha Franklin's funeral service was marred with controversy after the bishop reportedly groped American singer Ariana Grande during the ceremony.

Bishop Charles H Ellis III led Franklin's funeral and awkwardly greeted Grande on stage after she performed Franklin's hit number (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman. Images of the moment showed Ellis holding Grande well above her waist, with his fingers pressing against one side of her chest.

The awkward exchange between Grande and the pastor have left some viewers feeling uncomfortable.

Ellis allegedly grabbed Grande around her rib cage as he attempted to share a 'dad' joke with the audience.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxKc-moNIz4

"When I saw Ariana Grande on the program, I thought that was a new something at Taco Bell," he said as the crowd erupted into laughter.

Grande shared her own embarrassed laugh and appeared to be uncomfortable while in his grip. "Girl, let me give you all your respect," Ellis continued, hugging Grande. "Did y'all enjoy this icon? She's an icon herself."

Social media instantly took note of the inappropriate joke but focused more on the uncomfortable positioning of Ellis' hands. Perez Hilton said, "Is it just me or... was this pastor just a bit too much with Ariana Grande?"

Twitter was outraged.

The bishop has since apologised to the singer.

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