In a revelation that has taken the entertainment world by storm, it has emerged that pop icon Justin Timberlake allegedly ended his relationship with fellow superstar Britney Spears with a succinct two-word text message: "It's over!!!". This disclosure, made by music video director Chris Applebaum, sheds new light on one of the most talked-about breakups in pop culture history.
The incident transpired in February 2002 during the filming of Spears' music video for "Overprotected: The Darkchild Remix". Applebaum, who was at the helm of the project, recounted how Spears disappeared for a significant period on the second day of the shoot in downtown Los Angeles. Concerned about the delay, which was costing the production, Applebaum sought out Spears and found her in her trailer, visibly upset. She showed him a message on her Motorola flip phone, which Applebaum claims was from Timberlake, simply stating, "It's over!!!".
The backdrop to this abrupt breakup message was reportedly Timberlake's anger over allegations of Spears' infidelity with choreographer Wade Robson. Spears, in her memoir "Woman In Me", has admitted to a single instance of making out with Robson but maintained that she had been forthright about the incident with Timberlake, and they had moved past it. However, Applebaum's account suggests that Timberlake took the incident to heart.
Despite the emotional turmoil, Spears, with some encouragement from Applebaum, decided to complete the shoot. Applebaum recalled telling her, "If you want to go out there and finish this last set-up in the rain, you can show him that he just made the biggest f***ing mistake of his life". Spears, seemingly on a mission, delivered the rain sequence with heightened conviction, as if to make a statement.
Applebaum's recollections also paint a picture of a young Spears, then 20, arriving on set with enthusiasm and determination, ready to tackle the demanding dance sequences. He spoke highly of her, emphasizing her innate 'X' factor that made her stand out.
The aftermath of the breakup saw Timberlake penning the song "Cry Me A River", which many believe alluded to Spears' alleged infidelity. The song's music video, featuring a Spears look-alike, further fueled the narrative of her being the one at fault. Spears' memoir touches upon this period, highlighting how she felt villainized and portrayed as the one who broke the heart of "America's golden boy".
The narrative around their breakup was further emphasized in a 2003 interview Spears had with Diane Sawyer, where she was pointedly asked about causing Timberlake pain and suffering. Spears' memoir also delves into the emotional aftermath of the breakup, describing her feeling "comatose" in Louisiana while Timberlake seemed to be thriving in Hollywood.
While Spears has been open about many aspects of her relationship with Timberlake in her memoir, she has not commented on Applebaum's recent revelations.
