HOLLYWOOD - When we say that MTV’s Video Music Awards is filled with unscripted surprises and guest appearances, we aren’t joking.The most unexpected moment of the awards ceremony definitely belongs to Michael Jackson, who popped out from behind a giant Etch-A-Sketch screen on the cartoon-inspired set at the end of 'N Sync’s performance.
"We begged and begged and begged [to get Jackson to come onstage]," 'N Sync’s Chris Kirkpatrick said during the after-party broadcast. "We couldn’t tell friends, family or anybody," JC Chasez said.
Jackson was also one of the many artists who comedian Jamie Foxx, this year’s host, refused to let get away without a bad joke at their expense.
"Michael is charging $2,500 for his concert, but kids get to go for free," Foxx said. "He loves children."
Oh, but believe me, that was nothing compared to what came next.
While commenting on the recent penchant among artists for shortening their names, like Sean "Puffy" Combs to "P. Diddy" and Jennifer Lopez to "J.Lo," Foxx took the liberty of renaming Backstreet Boy A.J. McLean to "Long Island Ice-T."
When the Backstreet Boys came on stage to present the Best Rap Video award, McLean thanked MTV and his fans for supporting him through his recent stay in rehab.
"Today is 64 sober, and I’m proud of it," he said.
But Foxx didn’t feel so proud of it, as he offered McLean champagne as the group left the stage. "It's apple cider," he said. "Apple cider! You can drink apple cider, can't you?"
Without a doubt, that was the most tasteless, evil joke I have ever heard.