Justin Sylvester has become the talk of social media after he appeared to be demanding his personal space during a cooking segment on a recent episode of the Today show. Social media users assumed that Sylvester was trying to send a message to his co-host Jenna Bush Hager, who was getting too close while the pair were hosting cookbook author Andy Baraghani.

The viral clip shows Hager first leaning on Sylvester and putting her hands on his shoulders. Sylvester then shakes his shoulder, creating some separation between himself and his co-host. Seconds later, as Baraghani continued to give cooking directions, Sylvester subtly pushed Hager to make more room for himself.

As the internet took sides between the two hosts, Sylvester posted a clarification in his Instagram Story, Page Six reports.

“What we were doing was we were both flirting. Well, I was flirting with the chef because he was cute, and I was pushing her out of the way so I could have a one-on-one moment with the chef,” Sylvester said, adding that Hager is the nicest person.

Social media users were already running off with the takes before the actor explained the situation.

Sylvester is a regular contributor to the Today show. He often appears alongside Hager and Hoda Kotb.

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