Britney Spears’ latest album is called “Circus,” which is apt, but “Shape-shifter” also would have been appropriate.
From her early days as an adorable Mouseketeer, to the sexy schoolgirl, the snake dancer, Justin Timberlake’s girlfriend, Kevin Federline’s wife, Madonna kisser, mom, head-shaving head-case, to her current run as comeback queen, Spears keeps us guessing, and watching. Here’s the life and times of Ms. Spears:
1993-94: A fresh-faced Britney is a member of “The New Mickey Mouse Club.”
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1999: Dressed as a naughty schoolgirl in the video for “… Baby One More Time,” 17-year-old Britney shoots to superstardom, with her Lolita pose on the cover of Rolling Stone aiding the cause.
2001: Spears performs “I’m a Slave 4 You” at the MTV Video Music Awards with a 7-foot python draped around her neck.
2002: Britney tries crossing over to the big screen with “Crossroads,” which was widely panned by critics.
2003: At the VMAs, Britney shares a salacious kiss with Madonna.
2004: Quickie Las Vegas marriage to childhood friend Jason Alexander is annulled two days later.
2004: Marries Kevin Federline, a backup dancer from her concert tour. They have two kids and divorce three years later.
2007: After reportedly spending one night in a rehab facility, Britney checks out and shaves her blond locks.
2007: Spears looks a bit flabby and performs as though she is in a trance at the VMAs, earning her a torrent of mockery.
2007: Britney loses custody of her children.
2008: Spears is hospitalized after police are called to her mansion to mediate a custody dispute.
2008: Spears, whose father is in control of the purse strings, tells MTV that her life is like being in prison but that she is moving forward.
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See related story “For Britney, life is still a twisted ‘Circus'” Arts & Entertainment section, Page 5