Timberlake cited scheduling conflicts with
the filming of his big screen debut as his reason for pulling out of the
TV special. The announcement came a few days after black activities organized
a national e-mail, fax and phone campaign protesting his appearance.
"He has canceled all television appearances
through the end of April to allow him to concentrate on making the movie,"
said the special�s executive producer Jeff Margolis.
Margolis also said that Timberlake "gladly accepted" the invitation to co-host the program.
The controversy and protest come after the nipple-gate incident during the Super Bowl half-time show, where Timberlake ripped off a piece of Janet Jackson�s clothing, exposing her breast on television.
Lionel Richie is still on tap to host the program; it is unclear at this point whether the producers will hire a replacement for Timberlake.
Preview
and purchase music from Justin Timberlake
.
Kandace Springs - Run Your Race
On the Blue: New Horizons Cruise Day 1: Marbin Gets the Fun Started
Hot In The City: Prog Band Tu-Ner Coming to Phoenix
Slipknot To Play Rare Intimate Venue Show This Week
Deep Purple Announce New Album '=1'
Howard Jones, ABC And Haircut 100 Taking Fans Back To The 80s This Summer
Veil Of Maya and Brand Of Sacrifice Lead Summer Slaughter Lineup
Watch Sebastian Bach's '(Hold On) To The Dream' Video
Kittie To Rock North American Headline Dates
Billy Corgan's Adventures in Carnyland TV Series Premiere Announced
GHOSTxSHIP Releasing First New Music in 10 Years