Keke Palmer is finally addressing the speculation surrounding her relationship with "Hot Ones" host Sean Evans, offering fans a glimpse into their evolving connection.

During a candid conversation with podcaster Jay Shetty at Spotify's Conversations That Channel Culture panel during Cannes Lions on Tuesday, Palmer was asked directly about the nature of her relationship with Evans.

"Oh, we're talking about this?" Palmer responded with a laugh. "First of all, I love Sean Evans. I love Sean. Hey, Sean! That's my guy."

The 32-year-old Emmy-winning actress confirmed that the pair are indeed spending time together following their recent dinner date in New York City, which had sparked widespread dating rumors.

"We're hanging out," Palmer said, adding playfully, "You never know what could arise. We're just taking it day by day, one wing at a time, so to speak."

The pair's connection first captured public attention when Palmer appeared on the popular YouTube interview series "Hot Ones" back in 2017. Their on-screen chemistry was immediately palpable, leading to a second appearance in 2021 that further cemented their rapport.

The romantic speculation intensified significantly in 2023 when Evans, 40, appeared on Amelia Dimoldenberg's "Chicken Shop Date" and openly admitted to having a crush on Palmer during their interviews.

"Keke Palmer. Very charming. Very charming woman," Evans said at the time. Palmer later reposted the clip, telling Evans he was "too kind."

The following year, Palmer revealed to People magazine that she was "living for" Evans's confession, adding that she "knew the vibes were vibing" between them.

Their playful dynamic reached a new level in September 2025 when Palmer made her third appearance on "Hot Ones." During the episode, she surprised Evans by asking for a kiss to test their chemistry.

"I saw an interview where you said, like, I was your favorite guest, you know, and all this really sweet stuff," Palmer told him. "And I know we've just had some wings, but I thought that maybe we could just have a quick smooch to see if there's a spark."

Evans enthusiastically agreed, and the pair shared a brief kiss on camera. He later joked, "When I'm dying, and my life flashes before my eyes, I'll have that snapshot."

The pair continued to fuel speculation when Evans appeared on Palmer's podcast, "Baby, This Is Keke Palmer," in May 2026. During the episode, Palmer introduced him as her "potential future suitor," and their flirtatious banter only added to the intrigue.

Their recent outing on June 12 at Lucali, a popular Italian restaurant in Brooklyn, marked their first public appearance together as more than just friends. According to eyewitnesses, the pair spent over 90 minutes at the establishment, deeply engaged in conversation with Evans appearing "smitten" throughout the evening.

Palmer, who shares a son with ex-boyfriend Darius Jackson, has been open about embracing new possibilities in her personal life. Evans, typically private about his relationships, has shown increasing openness about his connection with Palmer.

Fans have long championed the pairing, and Palmer's latest comments suggest that what began as professional chemistry has blossomed into something potentially more significant. The pair continue to navigate their connection without rushing into labels or commitments.

For now, Palmer and Evans appear content to let their relationship develop naturally, leaving fans to eagerly await what might arise from their ongoing connection.