Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Country Star Mindy McCready & Her Son Reported Missing
Country star Mindy McCready is being sought by Florida police after she and her son Zander went missing Tuesday night. The "Ten Thousand Angels" singer seems to have disappeared in an attempt to take illegal custody of the 5-year-old boy.
2012 Grammy Nominations Concert Live Stream: Watch Now!
Ready to unveil the esteemed acts vying for this year's top prizes in music, the 2012 Grammy Nominations Concert is set to get underway in Los Angeles tonight (November 30).
Being held at the Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE, the event is being hosted by LL Cool J with help from special presenters Katy Perry and Nicki Minaj.
Opening the show this year is none other than Lady Gaga with other performances throughout the nominee announcements including Rihanna, Usher and The Band Perry.
Slated to get underway at 10 p.m. ET, tune in below to catch all of the action live from Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE with continued coverage on GossipCenter throughout the showcase.
Exclusive Deals! Moms & Babies Holiday Gift Guides
VOTE! What Do You Think of Kellan Lutz's Mohawk?
The <i>Twilight</i> star has a wild new 'do! Check out more star tress-formations and tell us what you think!
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Zoe Saldana: Not Hooking Up with Bradley Cooper
He?s People magazine?s Sexiest Man Alive, but Bradley Cooper's rumored romance with Zoe Saldana is apparently all made up.
The ?Hangover? hunk was supposedly intimately involved with the ?Avatar? babe since September when they were seen ?acting like two high school kids going steady? while out in Manhattan.
But Zoe?s rep has come to her defense, definitively declaring that Saldana is nothing more than friends with Mr. Cooper.
?Look at this source- unbelievable- they are friends who worked on a recent film called The Words also co starring Jeremy Irons and Olivia Wilde,? said the rep.
Robert Pattinson Is 'Sensational' In 'Cosmopolis'
'He's a great actor,' director David Cronenberg tells MTV News. 'It's obvious in the movie.'
By Kevin P. Sullivan, with reporting by Josh Horowitz
Robert Pattinson and Sarah Gadon in "Cosmopolis"
Photo: Caitlin Cronenberg's Twitter
The infamous birth scene in "Breaking Dawn - Part 1" may have drawn comparisons to the work of director David Cronenberg, but star Robert Pattinson got to work with the auteur for real in the upcoming "Cosmopolis," an adaptation of the novel by Don DeLillo.
The role represents a dynamic shift from the character fans around the world know Pattinson for, Edward Cullen, but Cronenberg, when he spoke with MTV News' Josh Horowitz, explained that the choice was nothing more than the normal casting process.
"You start with the basics. How old is he? What does he look like? Is the character very nerdy? Is he handsome and devilish?" Cronenberg said. "Is he an intellectual? You think about all these things and you think about the actors who could possibly project the things that you need from this character."
Once Cronenberg had a list of potential candidates for the "Ulysses"-inspired protagonist, Eric Packer, it is important to consider a star's profile in order to get the proper funding for the film. Cronenberg said that it takes an actor with a name like Pattinson to get his movies made.
After judging Pattinson's interest in the project and working around his schedule, it was clear to Cronenberg that he was the man for the job. "Ultimately, I felt he was the guy. Once again, intuition," he said. "I saw his movies, including ones maybe his Twi-Hard fans don't know about, like 'Little Ashes.' Maybe they saw 'Remember Me,' I'm not sure."
As for Pattinson's "Twilight" reputation, it's something Cronenberg acknowledges. "I can't pretend that I'm not aware of that. This is an unusual jump for him. He said it himself. It's scary," Cronenberg said, adding that it's the scary part of it that makes it worthwhile. "It's a scary thing because he's never really had to carry a movie quite that way before, totally on his own," he said. "He's in every scene. He's almost in every shot, so scary for him, but for an actor, scary is good. You don't want to be bored. You don't want to be too confident."
The question that will be on everyone's minds who goes to see the film may ultimately be, "Can the 'Twilight' kid actually act?" Cronenberg was quick to cast any doubt aside. "Really, he's fantastic. He's sensational," he said. "Really, I'm telling you. He's a great actor. It's obvious in the movie. It's not like maybe yes, maybe no. It's obvious."
Check out everything we've got on "Cosmopolis."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
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Michael Fassbender Looks Back On 'Surreal' 2011
From 'X-Men: First Class' to 'Shame,' Fassbender is one of the actors MTV News is most thankful for this year.
By Kevin P. Sullivan, with reporting by Josh Horowitz
Michael Fassbender
Photo: MTV News
Every once in a while, an actor with a breakout role will come along and capture the attention of both moviegoers and the people behind the films. Soon, you can find that same actor headlining films at festivals as well as scoring top billing on blockbusters.
For 2011, that actor was undoubtedly Michael Fassbender, who wowed the art-house crowd in 2008 with "Hunger" and found wider audiences a year later with Quentin Tarantino's "Inglourious Basterds" as the British Lieutenant Archie Hicox, who reserves a circle of hell for people who waste good scotch.
This past year, Fassbender became a superstar. He helped lead a brand-new team of mutants to box-office success as a young Magneto in "X-Men: First Class," and then delivered critically praised performances in "Jane Eyre," "A Dangerous Method" and "Shame," for which he's receiving Oscar buzz.
That's why we've named Michael Fassbender one of the actors we're most thankful for this holiday season. We sat down with Fassbender and gave him a chance to look back on 2011 and tell us why a different year — 2007 — meant everything to him.
MTV: Every year at MTV, we choose a few actors that we're most thankful for around Thanksgiving, and you've made the cut.
Fassbender: Have I really?
MTV: You have.
Fassbender: Nice one.
MTV: Obviously, a couple years back, when "Inglourious" hit, especially, that was a big moment for you, but it feels like this year has to be professionally the most satisfying year.
Fassbender: No, I got to say, for me, definitely 2007 changed my life.
MTV: "Hunger."
Fassbender: Yeah, Steve McQueen gave me an opportunity, a possibility to show some sort of capability in my profession. It was coming at a point when we were about to go into a recession. That was going to affect this business as much as any business — less jobs for less actors. For him to take a risk on an unknown in a lead role, it changed my life, really. From that, I had all these amazing experiences with Andrea Arnold, Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh, Cary Fukunaga, David Cronenberg, Ridley Scott.
MTV: It feels like this is where it all bears fruit. The seeds that were planted then, now it all starts to come out.
Fassbender: Yeah, you start off and you just want to be working, so jobbing actors, you're already thankful for that opportunity. To be in this position that I'm in now, it's ridiculous. Somebody pull the plug on me now. I have to say I'm blessed. When I started out when I was 17, this was the pinnacle, to be working with people that I find inspiring, I can learn from. It's a very privileged position.
MTV: Was there one particular moment in this year of 2011 that was the most surreal, the biggest high for you? A lot of premieres, a lot of production work, a lot of press. Was there one moment you can pinpoint?
Fassbender: Just lots of surreal moments. When I was sitting in a balcony in Venice — I've never been to Venice before — and I'm there with family and friends, and we're like, "Wow, this is a trip, isn't it?" We're all sort of experiencing this together. You're always sort of pinching yourself.
Being on a Quentin Tarantino set. When I was 18, I did a stage version of "Reservoir Dogs" with my friends, where I directed, produced, played Mr. Pink. I mean, I was totally green. I didn't know what the hell I was doing, but I knew that with hard work and enthusiasm, things get done. So then to be sitting on set with him, I was like, "This is weird." Already at the audition with him was strange, because he reads all the other parts. That was surreal.
To have this sort of reception we've had for both films in Venice, to be there with two films, all those things are pretty mad.
Check out everything we've got on "Shame."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Related VideosNicole Richie: Dining With Her Darlings
Nicole Richie stepped out with her two children, Harlow, 3, and Sparrow, 2, in West Hollywood, Calif. on Monday night (November 28). The family spent the evening having dinner with friends at Cafe Med.
Harlow wore a pink tutu skirt while her little brother was dressed in a blue plaid jacket with red jeans.
'Breaking Dawn' Best Scenes: Fans Share Their Picks
In 'Twilight' Tuesday, Twilighters tell MTV News their favorite moments.
By Kara Warner
Kristen Stewart in "Breaking Dawn"
Photo: Summit
With "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1" still crushing all competition at the box office, it's clear from the film's overwhelming fan support that the highly anticipated instant hit will be raking in more dough in the coming weeks and months.
In last week's installment of "Twilight" Tuesday, we asked fans how many times they planned on seeing "Breaking Dawn - Part 1" in theaters, and their revelations were both impressive and astounding: One young woman had seen the film 19 times in the first six days and claimed that she wasn't finished yet. So, with those multiple viewings in mind — and the dedicated masses who have now seen the film enough times to re-enact it from memory — today's "Twilight" Tuesday is about fans' favorite scenes.
As expected, plenty of folks had trouble selecting just one favorite scene from the action-packed, 117-minute movie. In addition to the three early favorites — the honeymoon scene, birth scene and wedding scene — according to our quick poll, fans seem happiest with the family toasts at Edward and Bella's wedding and Jacob imprinting on Renesmee.
"Love wedding scene and Charlie's speech, also Jake's imprinting to Renesmee scene," Daniela Imrichova said.
"I feel the wedding speeches were a well-thought addition 2 the movie - since it wasnt in the books. LUV Emmet's the best!" gushed Kristen Grumbine.
"My favorite scene was Jake imprinting on Renesmee it really touched my heart that Jake finally found true love," Christine Waters chimed in.
"Jacob imprinting its perfect. I've seen it four times so far and still cry," admitted Desiree Kozlowski.
"I have already watched it 3 times. #Favoritepart = THE WHOLE MOVIE," wrote Valentina.
"I will keep going till they stop playing it!! And my favorite scene?? The whole movie was amazing! #obsessed," wrote Robyn Smyly.
Check out everything we've got on "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1."
For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.
Related VideosHilary Duff Disguises Her Baby Bump in Black
Treating herself to the deliciousness of top-notch dining, momma-to-be Hilary Duff was spotted at Mastro's steakhouse in Beverly Hills, California with hubby Mike Comrie and sister Haylie on Tuesday night (November 29).
Pairing a black leather jacket with a matching top and leggings for her evening out, the 24-year-old's baby bump was perfectly disguised as she strolled past the paps following her feast.
And while Ms Duff says she has yet to deal with the morning sickness that so often accompanies pregnancy, she has been overcome with cravings of two very different foods.
"I've always been a pepper belly but this is on a whole new level," she said. ?The other thing I'm loving is chocolate milk. I'm not mixing the two. But I heard pregnant women mix some crazy stuff," she told press.
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Rocsi Diaz DISCUSSES Being Sexually Harassed By Webbie
We told you earlier about Webbie lashing out at BET and Rocsi Diaz, saying he had been banned for making lewd comments towards her. And now Rocsi is speaking out about the incident. Find out what she had to say inside....
Rocsi Diaz recently sat down with Peter Bailey of NBC's Nitecap to talk about the whole Webbie incident that went down on 106 & Park a few months ago.
When Webbie made comments about certain parts of his body in connection to host Rocsi, she refused to be subjected to his vulgar and lewd coments. She added that she has no problem sticking up for herself and women should speak up about "persons" getting out of hand and being inappropriate.
"He disrespected me....and the network would not allow anyone to disrespect their hosts in that manner. I hope that he understands it. It was a very upsetting incident."
Watch the Rocsi talk about the incident at 5:13 here:
Busta Rhymes Talks 'LONS' Breakup On 'Yo! MTV Raps'
?Yo! MTV Raps" will return to the air for one night on Sunday on MTV2 at 12 a.m. ET, and Busta Rhymes will be one of the featured rappers, revisiting his own memories of the legendary show. Busta recently inked a new deal with Cash Money Records, [...]
Rihanna's 'Cockiness' Is Perfect For Her, Producer Says
Talk That Talk track is 'Rihanna all day,' Bangladesh tells MTV News.
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by James "FLX" Smith
Rihanna
Photo: itv
Many of the tracks on Rihanna's Talk That Talk certainly touch on some very sexy subjects, using some very saucy language. But none are quite as blush-inducing as "Cockiness (Love It)," a sexed-up, genre-busting anthem on which Rihanna's not shy about liking the way her man loves her.
The Bangladesh-produced song is raunchy and over-the-top, and, according to the man himself, was already cooking up long before Rihanna came calling. " 'Cockiness,' it's layers of things I had sampled for a long time, never really messed with it too much," he told MTV News. "I was in L.A., and I had just pulled it out, chopped it up, made it a beat. My artist Candice Pillay, my other writers, Dem Jointz, they wrote the song."
Before appearing on Talk That Talk, the song was merely an idea that needed a bit of fine-tuning before heading Ri's way. "It wasn't 'Cockiness' at first, it was something else. They had the 'I love it' part. ... [They] came up with that part first, and that wasn't even on that track: It was just an idea. I was going to make a whole new beat out of it, what they wrote to it that day, it wasn't really all the way done. A couple days later, they revisited it and came up with the 'Cockiness.' "
After some work, the final product was all ready for just the right artist. Given its sexual innuendo and tomboy swagger, there really was only one person to record the track. "I was like, 'That's dope. That's Rihanna all day,' " Bangladesh said. "They sent the song back, and I finished producing it. I put the 'I love it' on it that they had already had. ... She loved it, and that's what it was."
Bangladesh joins a who's who of A-list producers on the album, including vocal producer Kuk Harrell, The-Dream, StarGate, Calvin Harris and Dr. Luke, who produced the album's second single, "You Da One."
The singer revealed on Twitter that she's already hard at work on the video for "You Da One." She tweeted that when she hit up the set over the weekend, no farmers were harmed during the making of the clip. "Shooting another vid in Ireland today! No farm this time," she joked, a reference to the controversy about the making of her "We Found Love" video, during which a local farmer complained Rihanna's outfit was "inappropriate."
Which Talk That Talk track would you like to see Rihanna make a video for? Share your pick below!
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Jessica Simpson Keeps Busy In The Big Apple
Mom-to-be Jessica Simpson was spotted out and about in New York City today (November 29). Accessorizing her all-black attire with a cream-colored sweater and scarf, the singer kept a hand on her growing belly as she returned to her hotel after running a few errands.
Jessica is back in the Big Apple this week after having spent the Thanksgiving weekend in Boston with her fianc� Eric Johnson and his family. We spotted the couple doing a bit of shopping in Manhattan just yesterday.
VIDEOS: Nicki Minaj, Kanye & Jay-Z's Victoria's Secret Show Performances
Hip Hop ruled the night at the 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Check out the fun runway performances that aired Tuesday tonight from Nicki Minaj, Kanye West, and Jay-Z inside, in case you missed it...
Kanye rocked out sans Jay with "Stronger" during the super hero runway set. I wonder how many models he took home after thre taping.
Then he joined his Throne partner for "Ni**as In Paris" later in the show:
Check out Beyonce mouthing the words and semi-dancing in the audience. Cute!
And Nicki Minaj was the last performer of the night (Maroon 5 also performed) and she did the 80's inspired runway set to "Superbass." And is it just me or was she eyeing these models extra hard...
Check out all the pics from the show HERE.
Comedian Patrice O'Neal Dies At 41
Charlie Sheen roaster suffered a stroke in October.
By Jocelyn Vena
Patrice O'Neal
Photo: Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic
Patrice O'Neal has died at age 41.
The news of his death was was confirmed by his co-star on "The Opie & Anthony Show." The comedian and radio personality suffered a stroke back in October.
O'Neal was best known for his work as a stand-up comedian but also appeared in several films like "25th Hour," "Scary Movie 4" and "Furry Vengeance." In addition to being a regular guest on Opie and Anthony's show, he also made multiple appearances on "Tough Crowd With Colin Quinn," "Chappelle's Show" and "The Office."
Click for photos from the life and career of Patrice O'Neal.
Just this past September, he was one of the many comedians who poked fun at Charlie Sheen during his "Comedy Central Roast." He also hosted VH1's "Web Junk 2.0" back in 2006. Earlier this year, his Comedy Central special "Elephant in the Room" premiered on the network.
For those who knew him best, it was his bigger-than-life personality that will be missed most. "Yes it's true that our pal Patrice O'Neal has passed away," Opie, a.k.a. Gregg Hughes, tweeted. "The funniest and best thinker i've ever known PERIOD. #devastated." He then tweeted out a link to a video of the late comedian laughing on the radio show, simply adding, "Patrice O'Neal Greatest Laugh EVER."
Born in Boston on December 7, 1969, O'Neal got his start on the stage and in the early '90s and moved to Los Angeles to shoot for the big leagues. Eventually, his stand-up career resulted in smaller roles in films, as well as the HBO comedy special "One Night Stand." He had been living in the New York area at the time of his death.
The New York Daily News reports that O'Neal died Monday night. Shortly after his October stroke, his friend and fellow comedian Jim Norton opened up about his condition on the radio. "We don't know how he is. We don't know how he's going to be," Norton said. "I didn't want to do this by myself. I wish we had more news for you."
Share your condolences for O'Neal's family and friends in the comments below.
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Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Miranda, Alessandra & Lily's VS Fashion Show Viewing Party
Celebrating the biggest night when it comes to their modeling occupation, the gals of Victoria's Secret teamed up at Segerstrom Center For The Arts in Costa Mesa, California on Tuesday night (November 29).
With Miranda Kerr, Alessandra Ambrosio and Lily Aldridge all on-hand, the trio of runway stunners grabbed up prime seats as they held court at a posh 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Viewing Party.
Joining Miranda, Alessandra and Lily at the Costa Mesa soiree were fellow partygoers including Courtney Hansen, Keegan Allen, Dennis Haysbert and Tim Phillips, among others.
Tweeting about the happenings, Miss Ambrosio excitedly wrote, "At the pink carpet for the #vsfashionshow with @MirandaKerr and lily!!!" She added a short while later, "It's showtime!!! And @MirandaKerr , lily and I are having a blast!!! I hope u all enjoy as much as us !! Xoxoxo"
Of the catwalk extravaganza, Glamour contributing editor Tracey Lomrantz told CNN, ?The show fulfills a fantasy, and not just the obvious one of gorgeous women in their underwear. It lets the audience have a kind of escapist moment to a place where everything is sparkly and idyllic.?
Maggie Gyllenhaal, Peter Sarsgaard Expecting Second Child
Couple have been together since 2002 and have a 5-year-old daughter together.
By Jocelyn Vena
Maggie Gyllenhaal
Photo: Getty Images
Actors Maggie Gyllenhaal and hubby Peter Sarsgaard are expanding their family. The couple is expecting their second child together next spring.
A rep for Gyllenhaal has confirmed to Usmagazine.com that the couple's daughter, 5-year-old Ramona, will soon have a baby brother or sister to keep her company. A source said that the actress will "be laying low for a little bit now." In a previous interview with the magazine, Gyllenhaal admitted it's not always easy to balance being an actress and being a mom. "I had been so focused on Ramona — and she's been everything to me — but I'm also an actress. It's not possible to do it perfectly," she said. "Being a mom is so present in my mind and my work. It's the most important thing about me, but next I'd like to play someone who's not a mother."
Life & Style reported that the couple told friends and family about the pregnancy over the Thanksgiving holiday. Gyllenhaal first had people wondering if she was expecting when she arrived at the Rome Film Festival sporting what appeared to be a baby bump in late October.
"Over Thanksgiving weekend, Maggie was telling friends that she's six months pregnant," a friend of the actress said. "Her bump is so big!" The friend added, "She's thrilled to be pregnant! She and Peter have wanted another child for a while. They're very happy that they'll have another baby in the house soon."
The couple, together since 2002, tied the knot in 2009 in Italy.
As for uncle Jake Gyllenhaal, the friend tells Life & Style that he's really excited to be an uncle again. "Jake is so happy that she's pregnant again because he loves kids. Maggie's said that he's the best uncle and has done a lot of sweet things for her first child."
Lady Gaga To Be Honored As LGBT 'Hero'
Trevor Project will present singer with their Hero Award at December event.
By Jocelyn Vena
Lady Gaga
Photo: Ian Gavan/ Getty Images
Lady Gaga has never been shy about her feelings for the LGBT community — she's perhaps the biggest and most A-list advocate for LGBT youth. Now her work with the community is earning her some recognition.
At this year's annual Trevor Live event, the singer will be honored by the Trevor Project, a nonprofit organization that offers suicide-prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth. Gaga will receive the Trevor Hero Award, Press Party reports. The organization will also recognize Google Inc. with the Trevor 2020 Award.
"Our young people are at the center of a health crisis, and vocal leaders like Lady Gaga and technology leaders like Google Inc. have stepped up to help change our culture," David McFarland, interim executive director and CEO of the Trevor Project, said in a statement.
"Our honorees are working with the Trevor Project to make a better today and a brighter tomorrow for youth. We are proud to honor Lady Gaga with the Trevor Hero Award and Google Inc. with the Trevor 2020 award for their work to help young people express their true selves with pride."
Gaga and her mother recently started the Born This Way Foundation, which will focus on "youth empowerment and equality by addressing issues like self-confidence, well-being, anti-bullying, mentoring and career development and will utilize digital mobilization as one of the means to create positive change."
The Trevor party is set to go down on December 4 at the Hollywood Palladium. Gaga won't be the only A-lister on hand at the big show.
Fergie, Mary J. Blige, Miley Cyrus, Gleeks Chris Colfer and Darren Criss, Julianne Hough and "True Blood" star Joe Manganiello are just a few of the stars slated to appear. Criss made headlines last year when he was joined onstage by Katy Perry at the event. The two performed her track "Teenage Dream," which he had famously covered on "Glee."
Related Videos Related Photos Related Artists'Breaking Dawn - Part 1' Ends In A 'Very Organic Place'
'Everybody debated it a lot,' screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg says of back-and-forth over where to split the finale.
By Terri Schwartz, with reporting by Josh Horowitz
Robert Pattinson in "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1"
Photo: Summit Entertainment
If you were among the devoted "Twilight" fans who lined up to see "Breaking Dawn - Part 1" over the weekend, then you already know the film has a pretty dramatic conclusion. But MTV News has learned that the first of the two-part finale wasn't always intended to end where it does, even if it seems like the obvious choice.
When we caught up with screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg and director Bill Condon shortly before "Part 1" hit theaters, the creative duo admitted to a lot of early discussions trying to decide the best place to split the final two movies. While Rosenberg and Condon felt that the current ending was the most "organic" place to pause before "Part 2," the studio wanted to make sure it was a spot in the story line that would best serve the entire series.
"We went back and forth a lot and, initially, this seemed like a very obvious place for the split, but then as the creative process went forth, myself, the studio and [author] Stephenie [Meyer], [producer] Wyck [Godfrey] and everybody debated it a lot," Rosenberg said. "I tried a couple different things but ultimately this was a natural, very organic place to split it."
Condon said he was always a defender of the existing split, even if many members of the creative team debated him on it.
"When I came on, I really felt very strongly this is where it should be [divided]," he told us.
Fans of Meyer's novel should have a general idea of where "Part1" ends even if they haven't seen the movie. But if you're afraid of spoilers, we'll just say that Bella (Kristen Stewart) undergoes some pretty significant changes as the film winds to a close.
Rosenberg actually considered a split that would have pushed "Part 1" even further along in the novel. "Pushing from further into the second movie, pushing into the first act of the second movie," she said of the other options she had toyed with. "But it wasn't organic, it wasn't right."
Do you think the filmmakers chose the right place to split the two "Breaking Dawn" films? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Check out everything we've got on "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1."
For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.
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Britney Spears Experts Debate Elite Eight Videos
Celebuzz's Amber James makes a case for 'Slave 4 U' in MTV News' Britney Spears Tournament: 30 Videos for 30 Years.
By Christina Garibaldi
Britney Spears in her video for "I'm a Slave 4 U"
Photo: Jive
We are down to the Elite Eight in our Britney Spears Tournament: 30 Videos for 30 Years. The competition has already had some shocking eliminations in the second round, including the iconic " ... Baby One More Time" and "Oops! I Did It Again" videos.
Round three is open for voting, and there will no doubt be some surprising eliminations leading us to the Final Four, which will be announced Wednesday. The matchups are tight in round three, with "Me Against the Music" holding a slight edge over "Hold It Against Me," with 51 percent of the votes. "Till the World Ends" is starting to take a more commanding lead with 55 percent of the votes over "Lucky," which barely made it through to the second round with a late win against "Everytime."
"Criminal" and "Stronger" are neck-and-neck in the competition, with "Criminal" having less than a 1 percent lead. Could Britney herself have given "Criminal" a helping hand during this competition? The pop star, who stars with boyfriend Jason Trawick in the steamy clip, recently tweeted, "Which video do you think is gonna win it all on @MTV's bracket? I know which one Jason is rooting for!!"
Looking to be the most intense matchup of the competition is "Toxic" vs. "Slave 4 U." "Slave" currently has the lead with 52 percent of the votes over "Toxic." Both are huge videos for the pop star, but for Celebuzz's Amber James, "Slave" just might take the title as the Best Britney Video of All Time.
"I love 'Slave 4 U,' " James told MTV News. "That's when she started to push her image. Then she did the [2001 Video Music Awards] performance with the snake, and I think people associate those two things. It was a sexy video, there is no denying that."
Round three is open for voting until Wednesday at 7 a.m. The Final Four will be announced and open for voting soon after.
What's your favorite Britney video? Make sure to vote at Britney30.MTV.com or the MTV Newsroom blog, and share your picks in the comments below!
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2011 Soul Train Awards Tributes To Heavy D And Gladys Knight + Lil Wayne's "Tha Carter IV" Goes Double Platinum
Last night, the 2011 Soul Train Awards aired featuring stellar tributes to music icons Heavy D and Gladys Knight. See the performances inside and also get the deets on Lil' Wayne going double platinum!
The 2011 Soul Train Music Awards aired last night and viewers were treated to tributes to music icons Heavy D and Gladys Knight featuring some of today's hottest artists.
Watch the Heavy D tribute featuring Doug E. Fresh, Goodie Mobb, Naughty by Nature, Whodini, Big Daddy Kane, & Kurtis Blow here:
Watch the Gladys Knight tribute featuring Kenny Lattimore, Dave Hollister, Freddie Jackson, Tamar Braxton, Chrisette Michelle, Marsha Ambrosius, Mary Mary, & Natalie Cole below:
And Cee Lo hit the stage with Melanie Fiona for "Fool For You":
Also in music....
Proving that some folks still make an effort to go to the store and buy actual CDs, Lil' Wayne's Tha Carter IV went double platinum.
Congrats Weezy!
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BREAKING: Dr. Conrad Murray SENTENCED To 4 Years Imprisonment!
Conrad Murray was just sentenced moments ago in a Los Angeles court. And he's getting the max term. Details inside...
The court determined that the appropriate sentencing was the "high" term of 4 years in prison for involuntary manslaughter.
The judge stated he feels the max term is necessary because the doctor abandoned his patient who trusted him, administered potentially dangerous drugs, his actions occurred over a period of time, he repeatedly lied to cover up his transgressions, and he violated the trust of his patient and medical community.
The judge also said Murray has "absolutely no sense of remorse" and is still dangerous.
If Dr. Murray does end up practicing medicine in the U.S. or elsewhere, the judge said Murray "is so reckless" with his conduct that he's a danger to all everywhere.
Due to overcrowding in the jails, many believe he will actually only serve 2 years in county jail. Or 2 years of home confinement because of overcrowding in county jails as well.
Source: ABC News
Kate Gosselin: I Did Not Have a Facelift!
Kate Gosselin has been candid about having plastic surgery in the past, but this time she's denying going under the knife. Not that the mother of eight minds all of the media scrutiny; in fact, the new CouponCabin.com blogger is flattered by all of the attention.
'The Muppets': The Reviews Are In!
Critics are overwhelmingly happy with the big-screen reboot featuring Kermit and the gang.
By Kevin P. Sullivan
Miss Piggy in "The Muppets"
Photo: Muppets Studio
It's time to play the music. It's time to light the lights. It's time to meet "The Muppets" for the first time in over 10 years. Everyone's favorite felt friends are back in a big-screen reboot brought to life mostly on behalf of the hard work of lifelong Muppet fan Jason Segel.
The reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. (You can see our own rave here.) Critics have praised the return of the Muppets as fun, warm, family-friendly fare, true to the characters and the fans who have loved them for decades.
Check out our roundup of the reviews.
The Story
"A clever idea holds this reboot together, as simple as making one brother (Gary, played by Segel) human and the other (Walter, voiced by Peter Linz) a Muppet in love with the Muppets legacy. (He sports a Kermit wristwatch.) The locale is Smalltown, USA, which Gary and Walter introduce to us in the opening number, 'Life's a Happy Song.' Gary, his schoolteacher sweetheart Mary (Amy Adams) and Walter journey to Los Angeles for a vacation. Touring the old Muppet Studios facility, the trio learn of the plan to raze the historically significant and sentimentally priceless structure. There's oil under the ground, see, and the weaselly millionaire (Chris Cooper) after it doesn't give a Gonzo's patoot about nostalgia. To preserve the old homestead the visitors must gather together the Muppets from various locales and raise $10 million in a save-the-Muppets telethon." — Michael Phillips, The Chicago Tribune
The Songs
"The setup works like a charm. So do the songs, with several new ones by ["Flight of the Conchords"] star Bret McKenzie. Adams rocks out on 'Me Party.' And Segel's heartfelt ballad 'Man or Muppet?' deserves Academy attention as the movie song of the year." — Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
The Comeback
"As a theatrical troupe, the Muppets haven't exactly been AWOL these past dozen years; the gang rocked YouTube in 2009 with their kick-ass rendition of Queen's 'Bohemian Rhapsody.' But they've certainly been lying low while our twitchy, tweet-y times have favored snarkier, more air-quote-driven entertainment, even from puppets. And in a way, that showbiz hiatus has worked in favor of The Muppets. For adults, the movie's gentle, clever, unironic humor feels freshly, trendily retro now, enhanced by laughs provided in cameos from a very up-to-date roster of stars." — Lisa Schwarzbaum, Entertainment Weekly
The Muppets
"These are the same old, adorable Muppets, as sweetly innocent and likable as ever. Winking at itself, the movie is casually, amusingly self-reflexive. In one joke Kermit the Frog considers telephoning President Carter. 'The Muppets' makes no attempt to match the wisecracking hipness of the 'Shrek' movies. If it doesn't provoke belly laughs, it elicits many affectionate chuckles." — Stephen Holden, The New York Times
The Final Word
"The remarkable thing about the Muppets, then and now, is what distinctive personalities and presences they have. When 'The Muppet Movie,' the first in the series, came out in 1979, there was astonishment that — ohmigod! — Kermit was riding a bicycle! How could a Muppet do that? Today, characters can do anything in the movies, but these Muppets are still played by Muppeteers, and they're still endearing." — Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times
Check out everything we've got on "The Muppets."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
Jennifer Morrison Jennifer ODell Jennifer Scholle Jennifer Sky
Justin Bieber - Eenie Meenie
- Artist: Justin Bieber
- Label: Epic, Beluga Heights
- Director: Ray Kay
- Album: My World 2.0
Reese Doesn't Let a Minor Injury Slow Down Her Routine
Reese Witherspoon ran errands around LA yesterday wearing a blue brace on her left pinky finger. It's been an unfortunate year of injuries for the actress -�Reese was struck by a car in September, and now it seems she's mending another banded up body part. Despite the minor setback to her hand, Reese still managed to have a fun filled day at Disneyland on Saturday. She was joined at the "Happiest Place on Earth" by her husband, Jim Toth, kids, Ava and Deacon, and some additional family members. Reese will have time to recuperate her wounds over the holidays since she's not expected to start promoting her next project, This Means War, until 2012.
Charli Baltimore Charlies Angels Charlize Theron Chelsea Handler
PHOTOS: Ryan Gosling & Eva Mendes Get Cozy in Paris!
Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes take their romance overseas! Check out more pics of Hollywood's tightest twosomes
PHOTOS: Ryan Gosling & Eva Mendes Get Cozy in Paris!
Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes take their romance overseas! Check out more pics of Hollywood's tightest twosomes
Kardashian ? Jenner Family Thanksgiving 2011
LeAnn Rimes Tweets Family Photo
It was a happy Thanksgiving for LeAnn Rimes, who spent the holiday with her husband Eddie Cibrian - who looks to be sporting a Movember mustache - and adorable stepsons Jake and Mason. The singer took to Twitter to share this family photo last week, writing, "Happy Turkey Day from the Cibrians."
Despite their supposed truce, LeAnn and Eddie's ex Brandi Glanville have once again been engaging in a Twitter war of words. While LeAnn was enjoying Thanksgiving with the family, Brandi Tweeted of her own holiday, "Kids are with there dad this time. Lil depressed over it all!" Though she wrote that the boys will be with her for Christmas, she later asked, "any divorce lawyers wanna give me some advice on a threatening email?.... Its always nice to be threatened with jail time & loss of custody for wanting my kids 2B w there only 3 cousins for xmas!bully!"
Christina DaRe Christina Milian Christina Ricci Chyler Leigh
Justin Bieber Takes Paternity Test
Even after lawsuit was dropped last week, Bieber's team is taking steps to prove the allegations are false.
By Jocelyn Vena
Justin Bieber
Photo: Dave M. Benett/Getty Images
Justin Bieber is a man of his word. After promising he would take a DNA test when a paternity suit was brought against him, TMZ reports the pop star took one Friday night at a lab in New Jersey.
The gossip site reports that the test was taken under "very controlled circumstances," and the next move is on Mariah Yeater, the woman who claimed that her son is Bieber's before dropping her paternity suit last week.
Bieber and his team have maintained that the 17-year-old is not the father of 3-month-old Trystan. E! News reports that there is no timeframe for when Yeater must provide a DNA sample.
When MTV News caught up with Bieber on Thursday night, one day before he took the test, he shrugged off the controversy, instead focusing on the positive and saying he's been doing "great" these days.
Bieber sat down with NYC radio station Z100 earlier that day and joked that he'd prefer the rumors be about running away to South America with a supermodel. "Right now, I'm focusing on my album and the music and the [Pencils of Promise] charity we're doing and just being positive, because Christmastime is a time for joy and happiness, so that's what I'm thinking," Bieber said. "And as far as the whole baby situation, it's unfortunate that it had to happen like that. People make false accusations, but things happen in this industry and you have to keep your head high and be positive."
Those words mirror the advice Bieber's mentor, Usher, shared with him: "Stay strong. And know that all of this comes with the territory."
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Monday, November 28, 2011
Rick Ross, Common, Furious Five To Perform On Grammy Special
Rappers will join Melle Mel and Scorpio for a special performance of 'The Message' at the Grammy Nomination Concert on November 30.
By Rob Markman
Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five
Photo: Ebet Roberts/ Redferns
Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five were onto something when they recorded one of rap's earliest hits, "The Message," in 1982. Not only would hip-hop rock the party for years to come, but the then-budding genre would grow to become the CNN of the streets — detailing the ills of the inner-city ghetto. On November 30, Common, Lupe Fiasco, Rick Ross and LL Cool J will join Furious Five members Melle Mel and Scorpio for a special performance of "The Message" during the Grammy Nominations Concert, airing live on CBS.
The one-hour show will reveal the nominations for the 54th annual Grammy Awards, which will take place on February 12, 2012, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. LL Cool J will host the awards and Lady Gaga, Ludacris, Rihanna, Sugarland and Usher have already been announced as performers while Nicki Minaj and Katy Perry will be on deck as award presenters.
For the fourth time the nominations will be announced during prime time and the Grammy Nominations Concert will not only feature the cross-generational rap performance, but will also boast performances from past Grammy winners and nominees.
On November 21 it was announced that "The Message" would be inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, 30 years after it was recorded. On the track rappers Melle Mel and Ed "Duke Bootee" Fletcher rhymed about junkies in the alley, pimps, prostitutes and the rampant unemployment of the 1980s. The groundbreaking lyrics were summed up perfectly on the track's hook, "It's like a jungle sometimes it makes me wonder how I keep from goin' under."
"The Message" has since been a staple in hip-hop. It was sampled by Ice Cube in 1993 on a remix to his "Check Yo Self" single and again on Diddy's "Can't Nobody Hold Me Down" in 1997.
The Grammy Nominations Concert Live — Countdown to Music's Biggest Night will air on November 30 on CBS at 10 p.m. ET/PT.
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