Lillo Brancato Jr. and Taral Hicks, the teenage lovebirds from the 1993 film A Bronx Tale, are back together to launch the Sweethearts X J-FROST collection ahead of Valentine’s Day.
The duo reunited on Jan. 12, 2026, when Jason “J-FROST” Adams shared a video of the pair holding hands while strolling through New York City. Both actors wore matching black hoodies emblazoned with heart-shaped candy graphics. The collection officially debuted on Jan. 16, 2026, and the stars gave it their seal of approval.
At a Glance
- Lillo Brancato Jr. (50) and Taral Hicks (51) reunite for a fashion collaboration.
- Sweethearts X J-FROST collection drops on Jan. 16, 2026.
- Collection features black hoodies with candy-heart graphics.
- Both stars praised the drop in social-media posts.
- The pair previously teamed up in 2025 to support veterans.
- Why it matters: A nostalgic reunion turns a beloved film romance into a modern fashion statement.
From Film to Fashion: A Bronx Tale Reunion
The 1993 crime drama A Bronx Tale follows 9-year-old Calogero as he navigates life between his Italian-American father and the local gangster Sonny. When Calogero grows up-portrayed by Brancato-he falls in love with Jane, played by Hicks, a Black girl from his neighborhood. Their on-screen chemistry made the film a cult classic.
Years later, the two actors kept a mutual respect that has endured for decades. They recently reunited in October 2025 to raise money for veterans facing homelessness and addiction, demonstrating their continued partnership beyond the screen.
Sweethearts X J-FROST Collection Details
The collection’s launch was teased on Jan. 12, 2026 with a short clip showing Brancato and Hicks posing together around the city. Both actors appeared in matching black sweatshirts, each featuring a heart-shaped candy graphic.
Hicks commented on the drop: “Y’ALL READY FOR THIS DROP!! MY NEW FAVORITE HOODIE!!🩵💙💜🤍💛🩷,” while Brancato wrote, “I love this concept and clothing, Thanks J🔥💯.” Their enthusiastic posts helped generate buzz on social media.
The collection debuted on Jan. 16, 2026, and the two stars gave it their seal of approval. Fans of the film and fashion lovers alike can now purchase the hoodies, which blend nostalgic references with contemporary streetwear.
Behind the Scenes: Hicks’ Journey to A Bronx Tale
In a December 2025 interview with Fox 5 Washington, D.C., Hicks opened up about her path to the role. “Well, I started on off-Broadway in a little show called Mama, I Want to Sing. It was a great show that led me to audition for A Bronx Tale,” she explained.
She described the experience of working with film legends: “I had never had any film experience, and to be on set with giants like Robert De Niro, Chazz Palminteri, and even newcomer Lillo Brancato, who looked exactly like Robert De Niro, it was very intimidating,” Hicks continued.
Hicks also spoke about faith: “I was just a girl from the Bronx with no experience. But, you know, I think my belief and my faith in God and my prayers to get the role is what landed me that role. Faith, faith the size of a mustard seed. I prayed for A Bronx Tale… I said, ‘God, if this is my path, if this is my journey, this is what I’m supposed to be doing, then you will make it happen.’ And look, the rest is history. I’m here. He made it happen. And I continue to just flourish in all the gifts that he’s given me. I’m extremely grateful and honored.”
Impact and Philanthropy
The partnership between Brancato and Hicks extends beyond the screen and the runway. In October 2025, the two actors joined forces to raise funds for veterans dealing with homelessness and addiction. Their collaboration demonstrates a commitment to giving back to the community that helped shape their early careers.
The Sweethearts X J-FROST collection not only capitalizes on the nostalgia of A Bronx Tale but also supports a broader social cause. A portion of the proceeds is earmarked for veteran support programs, aligning the brand with a meaningful mission.
Key Takeaways
- Lillo Brancato Jr. and Taral Hicks reunite for a fashion drop that echoes their iconic film romance.
- The collection launched on Jan. 16, 2026 and features matching hoodies with candy-heart graphics.
- The duo’s partnership has evolved into philanthropy, notably supporting veterans in 2025.
- Hicks’ journey from off-Broadway to a major film role highlights the power of faith and perseverance.
- Fans can now purchase the Sweethearts X J-FROST hoodies, with proceeds benefiting veteran causes.
