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In a notable social media shake-up, pop star Justin Bieber has executed a significant purge of his Instagram following list, dropping approximately 25 high-profile accounts including his former collaborator and one-time friend, Benny Blanco – who recently became engaged to Bieber's ex-girlfriend, Selena Gomez.
The timing of this digital distancing has raised eyebrows across the entertainment industry, particularly given Bieber and Blanco's extensive professional history. Their collaboration portfolio includes several chart-topping hits, from 2010's "Eenie Meenie" to 2020's deeply personal "Lonely," where Blanco received featured artist credit.
"They used to be great friends, so it came as a huge shock," revealed an insider to In Touch Weekly, explaining that Bieber felt "offended" when Blanco appeared to distance himself after beginning his relationship with Gomez. The source added that attempts at reconciliation fell flat: "He's tried so many times to make peace with them and get past the BS, but they just won't let it go."
The sweep extended beyond just Blanco, with Bieber also unfollowing notable industry figures like Drake, The Weeknd, and Sean "Diddy" Combs. A representative from Bieber's team has yet to comment on these social media changes, though they come amid speculation about underlying tensions.
The situation grew more complex when Bieber posted what appeared to be a response to Gomez and Blanco's December 2024 engagement announcement. He shared a photo with his wife Hailey, set to Lizzy McAlpine's "All My Ghosts" – a song featuring pointed lyrics about watching an ex move on.
"When all my ghosts disappear" and "I can see it now, the wedding of the year" – lyrics from the chosen song – seemed particularly relevant given the context, though Bieber himself hasn't addressed the speculation directly.
Their professional relationship dates back over a decade, with Blanco once praising Bieber's authenticity in a Zach Sang interview, distinguishing him from "cookie-cutter pop artists." This comment was interpreted by some fans as a subtle critique of Gomez at the time, potentially contributing to current tensions.
