Lil Mama, Shane Sparks and JC Chasez admit they’re not exactly BFF — no brushing each other’s hair before show tapings — but they do all share a mutual respect for one another. While we were hoping for a little Randy/Simon/Paula-esque rivalry this season on ABDC, it seems the three-headed beast of judges simply have no off-camera steam to air. In fact, watch the video below to hear Shane Sparks refer to JC as one of the smartest men he’s ever met.

Whatever, I’m still holding out for a throwdown between Lil Mama and JC over whose outfit is prettier.