Sparks speaks up for Jonas Bros at VMAs

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 8 (UPI) -- Singer Jordin Sparks defended the Jonas Brothers at the MTV Video Music Awards from the event's host who mocked their vow to not have sex until married.

VMA emcee Russell Brand made numerous jokes throughout the show Sunday night about the wildly popular fraternal trio's decision to wear purity rings to remind them of the promise they made to stay virgins until they wed.

Sparks leaped to the teen brothers' defense when she took the stage to present an award.

"I have just one thing to say about promise rings; it's not bad to wear a promise ring because not everybody -- guy or girl -- wants to be a slut," she said, prompting applause from the audience.

Brand later apologized from the stage as the Jonas Brothers, seated in the audience, looked on, not smiling.

"I've gotta say sorry because I said them things about promise rings; that was bad of me. I didn't mean to take it lightly, whatever. I love the Jonas Brothers and I think it's really good. I don't want to (tick) off teenage fans," Brand said. "Promise rings, I'm well up for it. Well done, everyone. It's just, you know, a bit of sex once in a while never hurt anybody."

Usmagazine.com and People.com both reported that Sparks also wears a purity or promise ring.