Chris Brown’s performance that was going to honor #MichaelJackson at the “American Music Awards” on Sunday was reportedly canceled over ABC executives re-evaluating their decision in having a “convicted domestic abuser” pay tribute to an “alleged child molester,” a new report claims. Via Puck News, Matthew Belloni, who formerly worked as the editor of The Hollywood Reporter, shared some insight into why Chris was ultimately snubbed.
The R&B singer had been working closely with executive producers Jesse Collins and Stephen Hill on putting together a medley of Michael’s greatest hits to celebrate the 40th anniversary of MJ’s legendary sixth album, “Thriller.” The report confirms that Ciara was also booked to grace the stage and honor MJ during the set. Stephen, who’s the ex-programming chief of BET, reportedly felt strongly about having Chris perform, particularly since he shares a friendship with Breezy outside of just business and considered this a good look for him after a string of bad press over the years.
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Matthew claims he had made a call to question whether ABC should move ahead with its plans to back Chris amid his past legal troubles, which caught the attention of ABC Entertainment president Craig Erwich and head of alternative and specials Rob Mills, who came to the decision to scrap the performance altogether.
Jesse and Stephen were both outraged by the last-minute change, sparking a long debate between multiple execs, though it was deemed in the best interest of Disney (who owns and operates ABC) to cancel Chris’ tribute. When Chris was asked if he’d be interested to honor Michael in another way that didn’t include a performance, he told them he wouldn’t be interested.
At the ceremony on Sunday night, the Virginia native singer went on to receive the award for “Best Male R&B Artist,” though he did not actually attend the show — and it’s not hard to see why, if we were to go off by what the latest report via Puck News has alleged. Kelly Rowland, who was on stage to present and accept the gong on Chris’ behalf, stunned viewers when she took a moment to address the audience after seemingly hearing a crowd booing following Breezy’s win.
“Excuse me,” a displeased-looking Kelly said.‘Thank you so much for making great R&B music,’ and I wanna tell him, ‘Thank you for being an incredible performer. I’ll take this award, and bring it to you. I love you. Congratulations.’”