The media golden goose returns to the VMA stage

By Stacey Silberman

HOLLYWOOD, CA (Hollywood Today) 9/5/08 – Just a week after MTV said Britney Spears would not be at the 25^th annual VMAs, they decided the Britney brand too good to ignore. She will be there, up close and in person, but she won’t sing. “MTV has long played an important role my career,” said Spears via statement. “How can I not be there to kick off their 25^th VMAs? I’m excited to open the entire show, to say hi to my fans and to be nominated.”

Spears also earned three nominations for her “Piece of Me” video. Best Pop Video, Best Female Video and Video of the Year. Spears has had many a nom before, to no avail, but perhaps, this will be her year.

While most stories question what she might or might not do, not one story has recognized Britney’s courage. After last year’s disastrous performance at the VMAs, she deserves some kudos for stepping up and coming back, regardless of whether she sings or not.

In the past, Britney has French kissed Madonna and performed with a giant green snake, but this year we think she will come up with something quite smashing indeed.

She’s likely to show off her acting and hosting chops with some well written witty repartee between her and bloody funny comic host Russell Brand (“Forgetting Sarah Marshall”). Brand is the British comedian who did the silly VMA promos with Britney and the elephant.

Britney has come a long way from last year, after battling a mental disorder, the post-divorce blues, lots of bad choices and a bitter custody battle that was plastered on every tabloid around the world.

Hopefully, this appearance will bring redemption, renewed success, and will garner as much attention as she did last year following the horrific performance of her hit single “Gimme More.”

The VMAs also feature the musical talents of Christina Aguilera, Kanye West, T.I., Kid Rock and the Jonas Brothers. The show airs live on Sunday, September 7 at 9p.m. ET on MTV from Paramount Studios in Hollywood.