The big screen adaptation of Seth Grahame-Smith's popular novel "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" has had its fair share of fits and starts, what with initial lead actress Natalie Portman and director Mike White signing on and then signing off recently.
Fans of the book-to-screen adaptation had their faith renewed with "Fright Night" and "Lars and [...]
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Lindsay Lohan Turns Down Plea Deal In Jewelry Theft Case
Actress will now go to trial; a preliminary hearing is set for April 22.
By James Montgomery
Lindsay Lohan
Photo: David McNew/ Getty Images
Lindsay Lohan will not accept a plea deal in her ongoing felony grand theft case, deciding instead to go to trial.
That's according to TMZ, who reported Tuesday that Lohan — charged in early February with felony grand theft after allegedly taking a $2,500 necklace from a Venice, California, jewelry store — had met with her lawyer, Shawn Holley, and opted not to take a plea being offered by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office. She will now proceed to trial before Judge Stephanie Sautner; a preliminary hearing in the case is set for April 22.
Late last month, Lohan was told by Judge Keith Schwartz that had she accepted the DA's deal — reportedly six months of jail time — she would have been found in violation of her probation and would serve time. "I don't care that you're Lindsay Lohan," the judge added, bluntly.
"One of the things about me is that I treat everybody the same," Schwartz said at the time. "What I look to in sentencing is, 'What is the prior record?' In this particular case, there has been so much speculation in the press [that] I'm just going to tell you a couple of things: If you plead in front of me, you are going to jail. There might be an issue about the amount of time, but if the case settles here, you will be going to jail."
By going to trial, Lohan now faces both jail and prison time — jail if Judge Sautner decides she's violated her probation, prison if she is convicted of grand theft — but the actress has long proclaimed her innocence on the theft charge, tweeting that she "was not raised to lie, cheat or steal" and saying in TV interviews that she "feels great."
In March, security-camera footage showing Lohan trying on jewelry and texting appeared on "Entertainment Tonight," who had apparently purchased 45 minutes of tape from the jewelry store in question.
Related Photos Related Artists
MTV Movie Awards Mania Kicks Off With Sneak Peek Week
Stars of 'Fright Night,' 'The Help' and more stop by next week for live interviews and exclusive clips.
By Eric Ditzian
Christopher Mintz-Plasse in "Fright Night"
Photo: DreamWorks
Each year, we jam 12 months' worth of movie magic into just one day for the MTV Movie Awards. This time around, there's simply too much Golden Popcorn goodness to contain, so we're opening up things with a full five days of cinematic treats that we call MTV Movie Awards Sneak Peek Week.
Starting on Monday, May 30, and running through Friday, June 3, we'll be bringing you exclusive looks at some of this summer's hottest films, including "Fright Night," "Horrible Bosses" and more. Each night at 11 p.m. ET, we'll welcome a film's cast onto MTV to present an exclusive clip. Then you can continue the live conversation with the stars online, as our own Josh Horowitz hosts an extended chat with the talent. As always, you'll have the chance to ask the stars your own questions; just tweet at @MTVNews using the hashtag #SPW.
It's all building up to the Movie Awards themselves, which will be hosted by Jason Sudeikis and air live on Sunday, June 5, at 9 p.m. ET from the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City, California.
On Monday, we'll be sitting down with "Fright Night" star Christopher Mintz-Plasse and director Craig Gillespie for an early glimpse at this horror remake. Mintz-Plasse and Anton Yelchin play high school seniors who get pulled into their neighbor's creepy world, eventually finding out that the stranger (Colin Farrell) is a vampire preying on the town.
The next night, the stars and director of "The Art of Getting By," a Sundance fave earlier this year, will be stopping by. Emma Roberts, Michael Angarano, Elizabeth Reaser and director Gavin Wiesen will introduce a clip, then stick around to discuss their indie about a lonely student (Freddie Highmore) and the unlikely friendship he strikes up with Roberts' charismatic and complicated teen girl.
Wednesday brings us what's sure to be one of the funniest comedies of the summer. "Horrible Bosses" director Seth Gordon will present an exclusive clip before diving into a chat about how Jason Bateman and his onscreen cohorts hatch a plan to kill their nasty workplace superiors.
Then on Thursday, Emma Stone and Bryce Dallas Howard will jump into the action in support of "The Help." Based on the #1 New York Times best-seller, the film stars Stone as an unlikely civil-rights activist in '60s-era Mississippi.
Finally on Friday, the folks behind action-comedy "30 Minutes or Less" will bring Sneak Peek Week to a close. Stars Aziz Ansari, Michael Peña and director Ruben Fleischer will be on hand for the festivities, and stars Jesse Eisenberg and Danny McBride will deliver a special message for fans. The flick follows Eisenberg's pizza delivery boy, who's kidnapped and forced to rob a small-town bank.
After this week-long warm-up, the main event kicks off on Sunday, June 5. At this year's Movie Awards, "Eclipse" (eight nominations) will be facing off against "Inception" (seven noms) and "Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 1" (six noms). Voting in all the categories, from Best Kiss to Best Fight to Best Scared-as-S**t Performance and beyond, is currently under way over at MovieAwards.MTV.com. Voting is set to close on June 4. But voting for Best Movie will stay open through the show itself, meaning you have the chance to affect the night's biggest winner up until the very last minute.
The 20th annual MTV Movie Awards air live Sunday, June 5, at 9 p.m. ET.
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Monday, May 30, 2011
Are Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie Ready To Get Married?
In a new interview with USA Today, to promote his new film Tree of Life, Brad Pitt opens up about his family life and hints that he and pseudo-wife Angelina Jolie might be getting ready to be legally married very soon. Pitt explains that the couple’s 6 children are aware that mommy and daddy aren’t [...]
Taylor Lautner Says Wrapping 'Twilight' Was 'Very Weird'
'It's strange to know I'm not going to be Jacob Black anymore,' actor says on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live.'
By Jocelyn Vena
Taylor Lautner
Photo: MTV News
Taylor Lautner will be abducting fans to the theater this fall when his action-packed flick "Abduction" hits the big screen. Lautner promoted the upcoming flick when he stopped by "Jimmy Kimmel Live" on Tuesday night, also telling the host that he's feeling emotional now that he's wrapped up "Breaking Dawn," the final installment in the "Twilight" series.
"All done. It's very weird. Yeah, we've literally been filming these movies for the past three or four years. It's strange to know I'm not going back; I'm not going to be Jacob Black anymore. ... But on the other hand, we're going to be promoting these movies for the next two years," he said on the show. "I was pretty upset myself, but I think the biggest surprise was Kristen [Stewart]. She's very sweet, yes. I predicted it from the beginning. On the last day, it did get emotional. ... We are all great friends."
Looking ahead to his next venture, "Abduction," which co-stars Lily Collins, Lautner premiered a new clip. In it, the actor is seen getting into fisticuffs with a man on a train. And those paying close enough attention do get a quick peek at his abs.
"It was just a coincidence [that I used to study martial arts and now I do action flicks]," he said. "When I was young, I did every sport possible, and martial arts was one of them. This movie was the first time I got to use it."
So what about all those "Stretch Armstrong" rumors? He explained, "We'll see. There's a lot of stuff in the works."
Check out everything we've got on
For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.
Related Videos'Hunger Games' Casts Lenny Kravitz As Cinna
'When I saw Lenny's work in 'Precious,' I was just knocked out,' director Gary Ross says.
By Kara Warner
Lenny Kravitz
Photo: Jo Hale/ Getty Images
The buzzworthy big-screen adaptation of Suzanne Collins' dystopian best-seller "The Hunger Games" has added yet another highly anticipated cast member: Lenny Kravitz will play creative, kindhearted stylist Cinna.
Director Gary Ross said of the casting decision, "When I saw Lenny's work in 'Precious,' I was just knocked out. It was quiet and strong and understated and openhearted; all qualities which define this character. I'm really looking forward to this ride."
Cinna is the stylist for District 12 tributes Katniss and Peeta. Hunger Games stylists are responsible for presenting their tributes in complex costumes and ensembles that reflect characteristics of the tributes' native districts, as well as the personalities of the young men and women to which the stylist is assigned. Cinna is one of the few calming presences in Katniss' life, as well as one of the few people she can trust.
Naturally, Kravitz is best known for his music career — he won the Best Male Rock Vocal Performance Grammy four years in a row from 1999 to 2002, breaking the record for most wins in that category and most consecutive wins in one category — with tracks like "Are You Gonna Go My Way," "Fly Away," "American Woman," and "Again." Over the last few years, however, Kravitz has dipped his multitalented toe into the world of acting, his breakout role being that of compassionate and encouraging Nurse John in "Precious."
Kravitz joins a long list of high-profile stars, including Woody Harrelson as Haymitch Abernathy, Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark, Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne, Elizabeth Banks as Effie Trinkett and Wes Bentley as Seneca Crane.
Check out everything we've got on "The Hunger Games."
For young Hollywood news, fashion and "Twilight" updates around the clock, visit HollywoodCrush.MTV.com.
Related Photos Related Artists'Harry Potter' Cast Sums Up Their Experience In One Word, Plus Two New 'Deathly Hallows' Posters
As the "Harry Potter" finale continues on towards the "Deathly Hallows" conclusion this summer, we've seen more and more cast and crew members come out of the woodwork to say goodbye to the much adored wizarding world.
Today, Empire continues its "Harry Potter" farewell tour with an interview that features Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma [...]
Today, Empire continues its "Harry Potter" farewell tour with an interview that features Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma [...]
MTV First: Taylor Swift
Taylor debuts her new music video, "The Story Of Us" and sits down with MTV News' Sway for an exclusive live interview.
Related ArtistsKaty Perry Says Her 'Honest' Anthems Are Highlight Of Arena Shows
'When I'm playing 'Firework,' the whole arena literally moves up and down,' she tells MTV News.
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Sway Calloway
Katy Perry
Photo: MTV News
Katy Perry has been hitting the road on her California Dreams World Tour, which hits the States in June. Her colorful live show includes costumes to match and choice cuts plucked from the singer's repertoire. Some of those tunes, specifically songs from last year's Teenage Dream, are proving to be more than just a good time for fans — they're also inspirational.
"I always want to be completely honest and, for this record in particular, I knew from the outside world, a lot had changed. [But] I was hoping that I was still the same me, [the] kind of quirky, weird-perspective girl that I've always been," she told MTV News recently. "But you know, there was a lot of distraction and glitz and glam. When you get to a certain point, you have to push it all away and remember what your core is, and that's what I did for this record."
So, before she hit the road or the recording studio, Perry headed home to Santa Barbara, California, and took it all back to the beginning, before she was a famous pop star with an over-the-top life.
"I started writing songs like 'Firework' and 'Teenage Dream' and songs that I think now are anthems for people," she explained. "When I'm playing 'Firework,' the whole arena literally moves up and down. It's the song that people are holding onto and inspired by."
Perry admitted that something as simple as a Hollywood party can be fun fodder for a song, but these days she likes to go a little deeper. "I feel really happy that I took that time to not write about DJs and fame, the materialistic world, which is great 'cause I love those glitz-and-glamour bells and whistles, but I know people connect to more substantial [lyrics]."
Which Katy Perry song are you most eager to hear her perform live? Let us know in the comments!
Related Videos Related ArtistsSunday, May 29, 2011
Happy 43rd Birthday, Kylie Minogue
Much, much love goes out to the goddess Kylie Minogue today … because she is celebrating her 43rd year of life today … which, really, is a gift to all of us. As you may know, Kylie just completed her Aphrodite Live 2011 tour of North America after performing across Europe on her Les Folies [...]
Justin Bieber, Chris Brown Set To Shoot 'Next 2 You' Video
Scooter Braun, Biebs' manager, teases 'crazy' clip from F.A.M.E.
By Jocelyn Vena
Justin Bieber and Chris Brown (file)
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
Chris Brown recently took the stage with Justin Bieber during the Biebs' tour stop in Australia, where they performed "Up," and now the two will begin work on a video for Brown's F.A.M.E. track "Next 2 You."
Bieber's manager, Scooter Braun, confirmed the video plans on Twitter. "NP- #Next2You w/ @justinbieber and @chrisbrown - video treatment is crazy ... yeah it's coming!!" he wrote.
With little known about what these two have in store for fans, MTV News spoke to Brown in March about working with the teen star on the track. "Being able to collab with [Bieber] was great," Brown said. "He's a young, energetic cat, so being able to work with him, with the fanbase he has, was incredible. I know a lot of little girls are going to love this record.
"I wouldn't say [he's] my protégé. He's doing his thing at a young age, and I was doing mine at a young age, so being able to see him come up is dope."
The midtempo ballad is about the power of love and making the pledge to spend your life with that special someone. The chorus says, "One day when the sky is fallin'/ I'll be standing right next to you, right next to you/ Nothing will ever come between us/ 'Cause I'll be standing right next to you, right next to you."
While it's a feel-good track, Brown joked that when recording the song, he missed his chance to hit the studio with Bieber. "I actually stood him up on accident," Brown recalled. "He was kind of mad ... I was all the way on the other side of town handling some business, 'girl business,' and I was rushing back, and by that time, he's like, 'Man, I'm leaving, bro. I did it — just check it out.' And I looked at it and listened to it and I was like, 'Man, this is crazy.' ... He's a great kid."
Related Artists'Grease' Actor Jeff Conaway Dies At 60
In recent years, Conaway was known for being treated by Dr. Drew on 'Celebrity Rehab.'
By Kara Warner
Jeff Conaway
Photo: MTV News
Troubled actor Jeff Conaway, star of TV and film classics "Taxi" and "Grease," has died. The 60-year-old actor passed away Friday morning (May 27) at the Encino Tarzana Medical Center, where he had been hospitalized in a coma since May 11.
E! Online reports that Conaway's family members, including his sister, decided Thursday to have doctors remove the feeding tube and ventilator that had been essentially keeping the actor alive. Conaway's longtime girlfriend, Vikki Lizzi, reportedly objected to the family's decision and went to court to try to block the move, but the family did not relent.
Conaway was found unconscious and was hospitalized following a suspected drug overdose that involved pain pills. Dr. Drew Pinsky, who worked with Conaway during his time on VH1's "Celebrity Rehab" to treat his drug and alcohol addictions, took to his Twitter account last week to refute claims that Conaway's condition was due to an overdose.
"Just visited Jeff Conaway," Pinsky tweeted. "He is stable & looks like he will recover from his pneumonia. Not an OD like press is alleging & certainly not dead."
Conaway's manager Phil Brock told The Associated Press that the actor was a "gentle soul" but one who has been unable to "exorcise his demons."
Conaway is perhaps best known for his portrayal of high school bad boy Kenickie in 1978's hit movie adaptation of the "Grease" musical, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. He also appeared in the Broadway version of "Grease" and played struggling actor Bobby in the sitcom "Taxi," alongside Danny DeVito and Tony Danza, from 1978 to 1981.
Share your thoughts for Conaway's friends and family in the comments.
MTV News Extended Play: A Tribe Called Quest
MTV News Extended Play: A Tribe Called Quest
A Tribe Called Quest open up about the issues surrounding the Rapaport documentary.
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Saturday, May 28, 2011
'RapFix Live' With Lil B, Consequence And Pharoahe Monch
'RapFix Live' With Lil B, Consequence And Pharoahe Monch
The three MCs chop it up with Sway in the MTV News studio - happening now!
Related ArtistsRobert Pattinson In 'Cosmopolis': First Look!
RPattz and co-star Sarah Gadon appear to be in the back of a cab in photo from David Cronenberg movie.
By Eric Ditzian
Robert Pattinson and Sarah Gadon in "Cosmopolis"
Photo: Caitlin Cronenberg's Twitter
Robert Pattinson spent eight months on the set of "Breaking Dawn" and was immediately pulled from the set to begin his whirlwind press duties for "Water for Elephants" last month. After perhaps just enough time to take a quick nap, RPattz is now back on a new set: "Cosmopolis," director David Cronenberg's adaptation of the slim Don DeLillo novel.
With production under way, Cronenberg's daughter has posted the first look at Pattinson and Sarah Gadon in character. The photo appears to capture the duo in a cab, though the great majority of the action, or lack thereof, in the book takes place in a limousine. Pattinson plays Eric Packer, a young and rich asset manager who, over the course of one day, manages to lose millions of dollars yet remain oddly detached from it all as his limo plods through horrendous New York City traffic. Gadon portrays Elise, a rich and beautiful heiress who is married to Packer but who doesn't seem to care for him very much at all and who certainly won't sleep with him.
"I had read the script about eight months ago and thought, 'Wow, this is something that hasn't been made in a long time,' "Pattinson told MTV News in March. "Which I think, like 'Water for Elephants' as well, I'm just trying to find that kind of stuff, because what else is the point? There's so much generic, everything's the same. So you might as well attempt to try something different."
When we caught up with him again in April, Rob revealed that he'd been working with a dialect coach to achieve a "very specific accent." But he still hadn't spoken with Gadon about the upcoming project. "I've seen a couple of things she's done," he said. "She's really good."
For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com.
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Compton-born Young Money MC joins Sway to talk all things hip-hop today at 4 p.m. ET on MTV.com.
'Idol Party Live' Season 10 Finale Show
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Friday, May 27, 2011
Usher - Lil Freak
- Artist: Usher
- Label: LaFace Records, JLG
- Director: Anthony Mandler
- Album: Raymond V. Raymond
Lady Gaga Greets Fans At Born This Way Promo
Little Monsters jump at the chance to meet Mother Monster herself at Best Buy in New York.
By Vaughn Schoonmaker
Lady Gaga at Best Buy in NYC on Monday
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
NEW YORK — Hundreds of screaming Little Monsters lined the streets surrounding Best Buy in New York City Monday night as they not only celebrated the release of Lady Gaga's Born This Way, but also waited to meet Mother Monster herself.
With gear in tow, many fans camped out for the opportunity to meet their idol, some waiting two nights just to get a wristband granting them access to the meet-and-greet album-signing event.
"Being a Little Monster is about letting out your inner freak," explained Jen Finnegan, an aspiring musician. "[It's letting out] everything that you are and everything that you want to be through Lady Gaga and her music."
(Check out photos of Lady Gaga and all of her Little Monsters.)
The album was enthusiastically received, to say the least, by all 500-plus fans waiting outside the store behind barricades.
"It's the anthem of our generation and many generations to come," exclaimed Stephanie Currie, who came all the way from Vermont.
The influence of Gaga on her fans goes far deeper than an appreciation for quality dance music.
"I honestly believe that Lady Gaga has changed my life and ultimately saved my life," admitted Stephanie Picher of Boston, who said she went through a period of deep depression and issues of being comfortable with her true inner self until she first began to hear Gaga's universal message of self-acceptance in 2008. She's been to 14 Lady Gaga concerts since.
When Lady Gaga finally took the stage to begin signing, she was greeted by deafening screams of adoration from the fans, none of whom she intended to overlook during her visit.
"I just wanted to thank you guys for coming today!" Gaga beamed in a very revealing leather outfit that covered only about 5 percent of her body. "And I can't wait to kiss every single one of you."
She exchanged words and shared her lipstick mark with all of the fans over the next few hours, smiling for photo ops with each and every one of them.
Little Monster Margaret Michels was more than satisfied with the experience. "We waited in line overnight and we got to meet Gaga," she said as she showed off a dark red lipstick mark on her cheek. "And it was freakin' amazing!"
"She just signed my arm!" Brian Kapolka exclaimed. Having journeyed all the way from Chicago for the experience, he was unable to contain his excitement. "I've got to go get it tattooed after this!"
Don't miss "Lady Gaga: Inside the Outside" to hear Mother Monster open up about the creative forces behind her generation-defining career. Our exclusive documentary airs Thursday, May 26, at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. ET/PT on MTV.
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New 'Transformers: Dark Of The Moon' TV Spot Reveal New Robots, More Chaos
"Transformers: Dark of the Moon" is barely over a month away from crash landing into theaters, bringing Michael Bay's action-packed trilogy to a stunning conclusion. And, yes, while some people aren't particularly wild about "Revenge of the Fallen" ? Bay included, based on his own assessment ? everything we've seen on the "Dark of the [...]
'So You Think You Can Dance' Returns With Mary Murphy, Contortionists
Judge Nigel Lythgoe says season eight features 'more interesting' auditions and an emphasis on street dancers.
By Sabrina Rojas Weiss
Mary Murphy
Photo: FOX
As has become custom for several years, the echoes of the "American Idol" finale are still ringing our ears as Fox rolls out the first episode of "So You Think You Can Dance" on Thursday night (May 26) at 8 p.m. ET. But before we feast our eyes upon season eight's auditions, MTV News managed to get executive producer/judge Nigel Lythgoe and judge Mary Murphy to give us a little hint about what to expect this year.
"It truly is a much more interesting auditioning process this year because the kids are bringing something so new," said Lythgoe, who's been juggling his "American Idol" exec-producing duties with "SYTYCD" and its U.K. version. "Lots of different styles: turfing, this contortionism that looks like they're going to be dancing in the movie 'The Exorcist.' It's terribly exciting. Made Mary sick, didn't it, a few times."
Fortunately for fans of the loud, enthusiastic ballroom expert, Mary isn't actually sick anymore. After taking a season off to be treated for thyroid cancer, the hot tamale train is up and running again.
"I'm completely cancer-free right now, I'm happy to report, and doing fantastic," she told us. "It wasn't easy sitting at home [last season], I can tell you, judging from my chair."
Nigel said he actually missed Mary making his ears bleed with her excited comments on the judges' table. "And what's happened now with Mary's vocal cords is, she has gone from being the loudness of a jet engine to the loudness of a hairdryer, so it's eased a bit," he joked.
Another mix of new and old this season will be the format. After hearing complaints about last year's format, which narrowed the contestants down to 11 before the live voting rounds (instead of 20) and paired the dancers with "all-stars" from past seasons instead of with each other, Lythgoe said they're changing things up again.
"A lot of people were unhappy, unjustifiably to begin with, unhappy that we went to this all-star situation and [said], 'We want to see a top 20,' and 'We want to see them grow,' and 'We want to see the chemistry,' " he admitted, so they decided, "OK, let's try that this year. Let's do a top 20 and then introduce the all-stars into the top 10 and see if we can have the best of both worlds."
"It'll be great with the two things together," Murphy agreed. "The people that like the old format, it's back. The people that like the all-stars, fantastic."
After heading up a star-studded season of "American Idol," Lythgoe is spicing up "SYTYCD" with a few celebs too.
"Will.i.am is going to come on and be a guest judge," he said. "I worked with him on 'Idol,' and he really has got so much knowledge about music and dance. [He] has got the eye for dance and rhythm and everything."
And what about the dancers we'll see this season? Of course, they couldn't go into detail about the contestants, but Nigel did offer some hints. "We've invested a lot into street and hip-hop this year, more than contemporary," he said. "The contemporary kids are obviously formally trained and will find other styles a little easier. But if the street kids come through they're going to be very exciting."
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Michael Jackson - Hold My Hand
- Artist: Michael Jackson
- Label: Columbia Records/SMG
- Album: Michael
Steven Spielberg Ellen DeGeneres David Letterman Tyler Perry
Michael Jackson - Beat It
- Artist: Michael Jackson
- Label: Epic Records
- Director: Bob Giraldi
- Album: Thriller [Bonus Tracks]
Watch 'Idol Party Live' With MTV News' Jim Cantiello
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Black Eyed Peas, Usher, Slash Light Up Super Bowl XLV Halftime Show
Foursome is joined by special guests and tons of lights for smash-hit medley.
By Mawuse Ziegbe
Black Eyed Peas perform during the Super Bowl XLV halftime show
Photo: Getty Images
The Black Eyed Peas promised a party at the Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday (February 6), and the pop supernovas definitely delivered, with a performance teeming with lights, dancers and surprise appearances from celebrity pals.
Following a Chatter.com commercial that showed animated versions of the Peas showing off their social-media skills, the group kicked things off with their 2009 smash "I Gotta Feeling," descending from the ceiling on illuminated platforms onto a stage surrounded by a cluster of dancers clad in white bodysuits. The foursome led the team of fist-pumping troops in "Tron"-like getups, with Taboo sporting an outfit covered in flashing lights, will.i.am rocking a shiny hairpiece, Apl.de.ap wearing huge bright studs and Fergie vamping it up in bling-laden shoulder pads.
When the speaker-busting bass of "Boom Boom Pow" dropped, the dancers dispersed across the field to create arrow-shaped formations as the glow-in-the-dark lights on their suits illuminated the stadium. Then rumored surprise guest Slash of Guns N' Roses rose from below the stage for a "Sweet Child O' Mine" duet with Fergie. The GNR great rocked a finger-searing solo in a studded version of his signature black top hat as more angular platforms and dancers moved across the gridiron. The platforms were bearing scores of marching-band musicians who blasted their horns and pounded away on their drums as the Peas went into "Pump It" and blue lights splashed across the production.
Quick streams of fog heralded the arrival of the Peas' second surprise guest, Usher, who swooped in on a long chain to bust out his will.i.am-assisted joint "OMG." Rocking a sparkly collar on an otherwise all-white ensemble, the R&B hitmaker cranked out several counts of energetic choreography, enlivening moves from his "OMG" video and at one point jumping over Will and landing in a split.
A spray of pyro ushered in the collective's breakout 2003 hit "Where Is the Love?" as the oddly shaped platforms spelled out the word "Love" in bright-red letters. The team of dancers, which appeared to have multiplied to over 100, formed hearts across the field as will updated the lyrics of the smash with lines like, "Obama, let's get these educated."
Then the group jumped ahead to their most recent single, 2010's "The Time (Dirty Bit)," as several back up hoofers rocking cubed helmets joined the Peas onstage and dancers lined up along the gridiron to simultaneously bust out the Running Man, a move which drew cheers from the crowd.
The platinum-selling Peas wrapped up the performance with a reprise of "I Gotta Feeling," as the quartet triumphantly signed off amid of blitz of fog, firepower and flashing lights.
Ripping the halftime show was clearly a touching moment for will, who tweeted beforehand, "Me and apl started the peas when we were 16 yesterday we were dreamin now were livin it. Wow. I'm not crying out of sadness or nervousness its joy and pride and memories and the journey."
And once the crew left the stage, the frontman was not only proud, but pumped. "That was so freakin sick," he wrote. "Wow...!!!"
What did you think of the Black Eyed Peas' Super Bowl performance? Let us know in the comments!
Related Photos Related ArtistsBeyonc� - Diva
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Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Usher Gets Sick, Walks Offstage Mid-Show In Berlin
Singer cancels kick off date of European leg of his OMG Tour due to illness.
By Gil Kaufman
Usher (file)
Photo: Michael Caulfield/ WireImage
Usher was forced to delay the kick off of his European OMG Tour on Wednesday night in Berlin because of illness. In a statement released to fans, the singer apologized for the last-minute scratch, saying he felt he was suffering from a "sinus complication." Although the gig was rescheduled for Thursday night at the O2 World arena in Berlin, his German fans apparently weren't appeased by his effort.
"I am truly sorry to all my fans in Berlin who were inconvenienced by tonight's postponement of the show," the singer said in a statement about Wednesday's aborted concert. "I was ill and felt that I would not have been able to give them the show that they properly deserve. ... I am looking forward to performing tomorrow and giving Berliners a great show."
According to the statement, the singer received treatment from doctors for a sinus issue that affected his balance, but a visibly still-ailing Usher was unable to finish the Thursday make-up show, reportedly abandoning the stage after just five songs.
On Friday (January 14), a follow-up statement from his spokesperson confirmed that he was too ill to play Thursday night's Berlin date and has been forced to reschedule the next three dates on the tour as well. The Rotterdam show originally scheduled for this week has been moved to March 1 and a show in Antwerp, also slated for this week, has been bumped to March 7.
The statement also updated the singer's condition: "Usher is suffering from upper respiratory illness, which is currently preventing him from performing a proper show. After consultation with doctors, he has been advised to reschedule the upcoming dates in order to get the rest he needs to ensure a complete recovery."
Footage posted on YouTube that was purportedly taken at the make-up performance in Berlin shows Usher standing silently at the microphone seemingly unable to sing, with fans booing him at first and then chanting, "Usher, Usher," as he approaches the microphone and apologizes to them for his struggles. "I appreciate your support," he told the fans wearily.
"I have been very excited about my European Tour and I deeply regret having to reschedule the shows," the singer said in the new statement. "I am truly sorry for any inconvenience I have caused my fans. My fans are the best in the world and I am looking forward to getting better so that I can give them the show they deserve."
Usher wrapped up the North American leg of his tour in December and his overseas dates are slated to last through the spring.
What do you think of the fans' reaction to Usher's walking offstage mid-show? Tell us in the comments.
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Usher - Fed Up (featuring Usher, Young Jeezy, Drake, Rick Ross)
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'Dark Knight Rises' Production Kicks Off With First Official Photo
Photo released by Warner Bros. features heavily muscled villain Bane, played by 'Inception' vet Tom Hardy.
By Eric Ditzian
Tom Hardy as Bane in "The Dark Knight Rises"
Photo: Warner Bros
Better late than never, right? We had hoped and assumed Christopher Nolan's third "Batman" flick was going to kick off production not too long after "The Dark Knight" wrapped up its record-breaking run in 2008. Instead, the filmmaker pushed forward with "Inception," and as even the most diehard Bat-fan must surely admit, Nolan's twisty dream-world thriller was quite a fine cinematic diversion.
Now though, principal photography on Nolan's third and reportedly final Caped Crusader flick — "The Dark Knight Rises" — has officially begun, with the production expected to span three continents, from India, Scotland and England to Pittsburgh, New York and Los Angeles. And to celebrate this highly anticipated beginning, Warner Bros. has released the film's first official photo and fired up a viral marketing campaign.
The photo features Bane, the heavily muscled villain played by "Inception" vet Tom Hardy. With Bane bathed in shadows, his back to the camera and a freaky mask on his head, the pic offers an excellent introduction to a character not very well known to the masses but one who is cherished by comic-book fans.
The Bane photo was the payoff of a brand-new viral effort that began with a muffled audio file on the film's official website. Savvy technophiles were able to analyze the audio and discover a Twitter hashtag (#thefirerises) and account, which in turn led to the discovery of a hidden image at Thedarkknightrises.com. Expect the marketing campaign to continue for quite a while — the film doesn't hit theaters until July 20, 2012. "We're very much excited about really finishing a trilogy and giving a conclusion to our story," Nolan told us in February. "And that's what we're doing."
Check out everything we've got on "The Dark Knight Rises."
For breaking news and previews of the latest comic book movies — updated around the clock — visit SplashPage.MTV.com.
Related PhotosAdele Notches Ninth Week At #1 On Billboard
Hard rockers Seether debut at #2, and Il Volo crack top 10 following 'American Idol' performance.
By Gil Kaufman
Adele
Photo: Andreas Rentz/ Getty Images
Lady Gaga will surely end Adele's reign next week, but for now the British chanteuse continues lording over the Billboard 200 with her smash album 21. According to figures provided by Nielsen SoundScan, the unstoppable "Rolling in the Deep" singer will notch her ninth non-consecutive week at #1 thanks to sales of 138,000, which bring her U.S. totals to nearly 1.9 million so far.
Way behind at #2 are hard rockers Seether, whose Holding Onto Strings Better Left to Fray comes in at #2 with sales of 61,000.
The only other debut in the top 10 is from pop-opera trio Il Volo, whose self-titled album has a modest bow at #10 thanks to 23,000 units moved, a soft total considering they appeared on the penultimate "American Idol" performance show.
The rest of the top 10: Now 38 (#3, 50,000); Jason Aldean, My Kinda Party (#4, 29,000); Mumford & Sons, Sigh No More (#5, 25,000); Beastie Boys, Hot Sauce Committee Part Two (#6, 24,000); the Lonely Island, Turtleneck & Chain (#7, 24,000); Justin Bieber, Never Say Never - The Remixes (#8, 23,000); and Fleet Foxes, Helplessness Blues (#9, 23,000).
Landing just outside the top 10 at #11 is the spaghetti western-influenced collaboration between producer Danger Mouse and Daniele Luppi, Rome (23,000), and the self-titled debut from "America's Got Talent" winner Michael Grimm at #13 (22,000). British rap import Tinie Tempah's Disc-Overy lands at #21 (16,000), while the New Boyz' Too Cool to Care comes in at #41 (12,000).
The jury still appears to be out on "Glee" star Matthew Morrison's self-titled debut, which falls 31 spots from its #24 debut last week to #53 as sales dropped off by 43 percent to 9,000.
Adele also continues her domination on the iTunes charts, topping the album tally, followed by the digital version of Gaga's Born This Way, Seether, Parachute's The Way It Was, Lonely Island, reformed cult college band Dispatch's self-titled effort, Mumford & Sons, Rome, Il Volo and the soundtrack to the Tony-nominated Broadway show "The Book of Mormon."
The iTunes singles chart continues to be topped by Adele's "Rolling in the Deep," which beats out Pitbull's "Give Me Everything," LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem, Gaga's "Hair," Bruno Mars' "The Lazy Song," Jennifer Lopez's "On the Floor," Katy Perry's "E.T.," the Black Eyed Peas' "Just Can't Get Enough," Nicki Minaj's "Super Bass" and Lupe Fiasco's "The Show Goes On."
Gaga will smash the top next week, when new albums from Brad Paisley, NKOTBSB and Foster the People will also make their chart debuts.
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