Throughout the years, we have watched these two stars rise to fame, take over the world, and sell millions of albums. Nominated “Pop Princess” and “The King of Pop”, there was nothing these two didn't do. Once great, but now crazy, the two are now competing for the title of “Most Insane”, but who is by far the better pop star? Whether it be plastic surgery to vagina flashing, which multi-platinum artist takes the cake?
The Good:
Record Sales
In the early 80's Michael Jackson sold roughly 100 million copies of “Thriller” alone, while “Baby One More Time” sold 25 in the late 90's. That's not bad for the both of them, but we got to hand it to Michael for capitalizing on a song named “Beat It”. (Quick note: Who orchestrated that album cover for Britney?)
Healthy Relationships
Before there was Bragelina or Bennifer, there was Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake. They were before the time of celebrity name mashing, a time where fellow Mickey Mouseketeers could dominate the world. Britney and Justin lasted four years until their split in 2002. With the dropout of Michael Jackson in 1978, the Jackson Five, however, lasted 24 years. That's a long time to watch five boys go through puberty, voice changes, and even complete face makeovers.
Fashion statements
There was no one in the world that didn't own that iconic red leather jacket that spawned Michael's career, but somehow Britney managed to justify the slutty school girl look to about a billion teenage girls. So much for hail marys. Michael went on further to pioneer the single white glove, and many sparkling outfits to come.
The Bad:
Poor Decisions
These two have made many crazy decisions, but the root of all problems stems from the beginning, a fatal mistake that can end one's career. In 2004, Britney married mysterious back up dancer Kevin Federline, (due to the popularity of name mashing, would soon be nicknamed K-Fed) after only three months of dating. A string of bizarre behaviors followed quickly, as Britney soon began to come crashing down. Undeniably, Michael's fall from the throne was the decision of plastic surgery. Plastic surgery wasn't as popular in the 80's as it is now, so this was a shock to the world. It's understandable that this was taboo, considering it has left him completely unrecognizable. Michael claims he has the skin condition Vitiligo, but one can think of it as another word for “skin bleaching”.
Becoming Parents
According to Jacko, (another contribution from the celebrity name mashers) naming his baby Prince Michael isn't so bad, because he also likes to dangle them over balconies for a street full of press to see. He also has two other children, Paris, and Prince Michael II (Quick note: Mothers should stick to naming their children.) During her marriage to K-Fed, Britney popped out Sean Preston, and Jayden James, but due to her crazy behavior, Brit and Kevin divorced in 2006, and Kevin ultimately won full custody of the two kids.
The Ugly:
Rock Bottom
Why not go out with a bang? Britney suffered a mental breakdown, resulting in a shaven head, a new tattoo, not wearing any underwear, and driving recklessly on Los Angeles freeways. She was later hospitalized, diagnosed with bi-polar disorder, and was seen attacking paparazzi. In 1992, and later in 2003, Michael was accused of child molestation, bought a ridiculously expensive amusement park, and had more plastic surgeries. He was acquitted on all charges for both cases.
Where Are They Now?
After the molestation case, Michael has disappeared mostly from the public eye. (That's probably a good thing, since a majority of the population thinks you're a freak, child molestor, or God.) Britney tried to make a comeback at the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards, promoting her new album “Blackout”. The performance bombed, and the album sold about 3 million copies. In most recent news, reports have declared that Britney might regain some custody of her children, and a reunion between her and K-Fed may be in the works.
This past and present look can only bring hope for a better future for Michael and Britney. Like it or not, crazy as they may be, they're still a conversation piece, good or bad. (Quick note: but bad is just more interesting.)
