MTV News |
- Brittany Snow And MTV Launch 'Love Is Louder' After Recent Suicides
- Nicki Minaj Tells Her Gay Fans: 'Suicide Is Never The Answer'
- Neil Patrick Harris Encourages Gay Youth To 'Be Proud'
- 'Jersey Shore' Star Angelina Explains Her Second Exit On 'The Seven'
- Tyler Clementi's Suicide Hits Fellow Rutgers Students Hard
- Jay-Z, Beyonce, Usher Support Alicia Keys At AIDS Charity Ball
- Common Challenges Young People To 'Get Schooled'
- Rihanna Dishes On New Album <i>Loud,</i> Acting In 'Battleship'
- Before Tyler Clementi's Suicide, Rutgers Planned 'Project Civility'
- Could Laws Have Prevented Tyler Clementi's Suicide? Students Weigh In
- Mario Arrested For Allegedly Assaulting His Mom
- Travie McCoy Finally Addresses Katy Perry's 'Circle The Drain'
- Josh Duhamel Praises 'Transformers 3' Newbie Rosie Huntington-Whiteley
- Tyler Clementi Inspires Rutgers Class To Organize Protest
- Lance Bass 'Really Shocked' By Suicides Of Gay Teens
- Alicia Keys, Jay Sean Speak Out About Tyler Clementi Suicide
- B.o.B Calls Obama's Gen44 Concert Most Memorable Of His Career
- Tyler Clementi's Death An Issue Of 'Equality,' DNC's Tim Kaine Says
- 'A-Team' Producer Stephen J. Cannell Dies At 69
- Perez Hilton Suggests Gay Teens Find 'A Healthy Escape,' Like Music
| Brittany Snow And MTV Launch 'Love Is Louder' After Recent Suicides Posted: 01 Oct 2010 05:15 AM PDT 'It's a place where people who have been through it can support them and share their stories,' she says of project.
In light of recent teen suicides linked to anti-gay bullying — specifically the death of Rutgers student Tyler Clementi — MTV has partnered with actress Brittany Snow and the Jed Foundation, with support from DoSomething.org, the Trevor Project, Reach Out, Active Minds and the Ad Council, to help spread messages of love and hope to teens who feel they might have run out of options. Love Is Louder aims to address this important and sensitive issue, and Snow stopped by the MTV News offices recently to discuss the motivation behind the project.
"Initially, because of the recent suicides that had been going on, I was really troubled with what I was hearing and, of course, like everyone, I was really saddened by the news," Snow said. "I kind of felt, on Twitter and a bunch of websites, a lot of people were really angry and upset and sad because of the news, but they didn't really know where to direct their attention or their help," she said, which motivated her to contact her friend Courtney Knowles, the executive director of the Jed Foundation, to develop something that was "bigger than just giving advice to people." They wanted to create a movement, and Love Is Louder was born. "Love Is Louder is a movement that is hopefully going to bring some awareness and make some noise when it comes to teens who are feeling suicidal or even just sad, outcasts, and being bullied, and really feel like they have nowhere to turn to," Snow explained. "It's a place where people who have been through it can support them and share their stories, [so they will know] that they're not alone, and that there's a place for people to put their experiences and hope." The "Hairspray" and "American Dreams" star went on to say that she understands how hard life can be when you are bullied. "I know from my own personal experience," Snow revealed. "I was bullied in middle school and high school and went through my fair share of hard times thereafter. Also, one of my really good friends committed suicide when I was in high school. I understand and get when kids and teenagers feel like they're alone and it's not going to get better. My advice is that there is a support system out there, there are a lot of people who have been through what you're going through and are going through it now. You really need to speak up and know people love and support you, regardless." For more information about Love Is Louder, visit the project's Facebook page. You can join the conversation by uploading videos to Your.MTV.com, just like Brittany did, and by using the Twitter hashtag #loveislouder. Related Videos |
| Nicki Minaj Tells Her Gay Fans: 'Suicide Is Never The Answer' Posted: 01 Oct 2010 09:17 AM PDT 'I know that things always get better,' MC says.
Outspoken MC Nicki Minaj has said that she wants to help eradicate homophobia in hip-hop. With the recent rash of suicides by gay youths who have been bullied because of their sexuality, Minaj is now reaching out to tell her fans, point blank, that "suicide is never the answer."
"I would encourage my gay fans to be fighters and to be brave," she told MTV News. "People face difficulties, no matter who you are. I faced difficulties with a lot of things. I face opposition every day, but I didn't kill myself and now, thank God, I'm here. So I want my life to be a testimony to my fans and my gay fans. "I mean I could never imagine what they're going through," she continued. "But I know that suicide is never the answer and I know that things always get better. So I'm supporting you guys. I love you very, very much and for the people who don't love you, they need help." Minaj added that she thinks knowing the motivations of bullies could help those being taunted feel stronger. "I don't agree that everyone should agree with everyone's lifestyle. I think that some people aren't going to agree, but I think that when you're mean and when you ridicule people it's a sign of your own insecurities," she explained. "So shout out to all my Ken and Barbies out there and my girls too; just believe that things will get better and they will they always do. "It just takes a little willpower. There's an answer. There's always a different way that you can fight people back," she continued. "And definitely [with] suicide you're giving up and I don't promote giving up. I promote fighting and winning." Minaj joins gossip blogger Perez Hilton, columnist Dan Savage and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres in speaking out against bullying and in support of gay rights. MTV's ongoing "A Thin Line" project provides stories and resources for anyone who believes they are being cyberbullied or who is looking for ways to stop harassment by digital means. Related Videos Related Artists |
| Neil Patrick Harris Encourages Gay Youth To 'Be Proud' Posted: 01 Oct 2010 05:20 AM PDT 'When you get older, you find that people are actually drawn to individuals with different points of view,' openly gay actor says in video.
With the recent suicides of youths who have been bullied because of their sexuality — specifically the tragedy of Rutgers student Tyler Clementi — the subject of bullying has shot back into the headlines. Several celebrities have stepped forward to offer their thoughts on the matter with MTV.
"How I Met Your Mother" and "Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle" star Neil Patrick Harris sent MTV a personally made video for our young audience. "On the heels of a fourth kid who killed himself because of some anti-gay bullying, I heard that MTV was having people talk about it, and I wanted to get involved," Harris says in the clip. "Here's what I can say: When you're young, when you're in elementary school, when you're in high school, it's important to try and fit in and be accepted and to be part of the average," the openly gay actor explained. "Everyone does it, that's the way it goes. But let me assure you, if you're getting bullied and feeling like you're on the outskirts, it gets better. Because, when you get older, you find that people are actually drawn to individuals with different points of view who are proud of who they are and who make interesting and different and unique choices for them — at least I am." Harris went on to emphasize the fact that there is no need to harm yourself when something is going bad in your life. "You can act with strength, you can act with courage, you can act with class and stand tall, be proud of who you are," he encouraged. "This is a good time we live in, and we're being granted more and more rights, and it will continue in that direction, and, yeah, be proud. "But, for Pete's sake," he added, "don't cut yourself or jump off a bridge. Please." To get involved just like Harris, visit the Love Is Louder Facebook page. You can join the conversation by uploading videos to Your.MTV.com and by using the Twitter hashtag #loveislouder. Related Videos |
| 'Jersey Shore' Star Angelina Explains Her Second Exit On 'The Seven' Posted: 01 Oct 2010 04:22 AM PDT 'Enough was enough,' she says of her 'abuse' on the show.
In case you missed the latest episode of "Jersey Shore," the CliffsNotes version is that Snooki and Angelina ended up in an intense girl fight which led to the expectedly dramatic second exit of Staten Island princess Angelina Pivarnick. The self-proclaimed "Kim Kardashian of Staten Island" stopped by MTV's "The Seven" on Friday (October 1) to talk about her latest exit.
"Enough was enough," Pivarnick said. "I couldn't take the abuse anymore, so I just decided — I love my family and friends back home; those are the people that really love me for who I am — so I'm just going to leave and be with those people." Regarding the final showdown with Snooki, Pivarnick said it was all about Vinny. "It started with her being jealous that I hooked up with Vinny, and then she hooked up with a guy that I was talking to to get back at me, and she said I had her sloppy seconds. Meanwhile, she did the same thing I did," Pivarnick explained, later referring to herself as "drunk" and "a fool" for hooking up with Vinny. "I was definitely bullied, basically. I was definitely the person that everybody blamed for everything," she said. "I was blamed for the note. Meanwhile, I didn't even do it. I was blamed for talking about everybody. Meanwhile, we were all wrong. Everybody talks about everybody." Pivarnick's least favorite roommate has to be Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino, which is not a surprise for those familiar with the two roommates' antics on the show. Mike frequently harassed Angelina about her weight, calling her "a hamster" and "a trash bag." "I don't feel like I ever had a chance, honestly," Pivarnick said of her time on the show. "They say that they gave me a chance, they say that they wanted to let me in, but it was just like a roller coaster." But something tells us this is not the last we'll see of Pivarnick — especially since she said she's thinking about exploring a career in music. "I think I have a good voice," she said. "I've been testing it out with this producer I know, and I actually rap really good too. You would never expect it I know, but I'm actually really good at it." What do you think about Angelina leaving "Jersey Shore" (again)? Share your thoughts in the comments! Don't miss "The Seven" every weekday at 5 p.m. ET on MTV. Related Videos |
| Tyler Clementi's Suicide Hits Fellow Rutgers Students Hard Posted: 01 Oct 2010 03:40 AM PDT 'Even though we're in college, a lot of us haven't matured to the level you'd expect,' one student tells MTV News.
In the wake of the death of Rutgers University freshman Tyler Clementi, his fellow students organized a protest to highlight the issues that led to his apparent suicide — namely, violations of personal privacy and respect for all individuals, regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation. But that protest did little to change the mood on the university's campus, as students struggle to come to terms with the tragedy and figure out how something like this could happen.
"My initial reaction was shock. It's kind of infuriating that some people can be so immature. We live in 2010; it's not 1950," Rutgers freshman Emily Williams said. "You come to this big state university — with, what, 26,000 students? — you have to know coming in that it's going to be extremely diverse, and people need to stop being so immature and naive and a little more accepting." "We all feel like we should've been supporting each other — we don't support bullying — and we were shocked to hear of something like that happening," Stephanie Berryer Jean-Louis added. "Today's mood [on campus] was very dark, and everyone was talking about it and everyone just couldn't believe that something like this could happen at our school." Those sentiments were echoed by practically every Rutgers student MTV News spoke to Thursday, but after the initial shock of Clementi's suicide wore off, many were left wondering: Could something like this happen again? And, more importantly, is Rutgers a safe haven for LGBT students? The answer to those questions seemed to vary. "That's difficult to say, [because] Rutgers is so huge and there are so many different cultures on campus," freshman Taylor Tullo said. "In my experience, I've dealt with a lot of homophobia already, and I've only been here for about a month. So I think it's the type of students that are here, and maybe it's because I'm young and not a lot of kids are educated or exposed to different cultures. I just think it's shocking that, we're coming here to learn, and part of that is safety, and I don't think that has really been supplied by Rutgers." "I feel like we really take privacy for granted these days. I've heard so many of my classmates talk about teasing people for this or that," Marissa Lugo added. "It's almost as if, even though we're in college, a lot of us haven't matured to the level you'd expect." And while most expect that Rutgers will make some changes as a result of Clementi's death — including the increase of so-called "safe spaces," gender-neutral, gay-friendly residences on campus — those are still yet to come. For now, most are still attempting to come to terms with the loss of one of their fellow students and the actions that led to his death. "It's truly upsetting to me that people can't just accept people for who they are. Instead, they felt the need to make a spectacle of somebody because of their differences," Lugo said. "I'm not really surprised [it happened], but I'm saddened by it. It's really difficult for me to talk about." Related Videos |
| Jay-Z, Beyonce, Usher Support Alicia Keys At AIDS Charity Ball Posted: 01 Oct 2010 12:02 AM PDT Jay, Janelle Monae, Swizz Beatz were among performers at Keys' 8th annual Keep a Child Alive event.
Alicia Keys has proven to be as selfless in real life as she is in song.
The singer held her 8th annual Keep a Child Alive Black Ball event in New York on Thursday night. The fundraiser brought out Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Usher, Jay Sean, Janelle Monae, Jennifer Hudson, Whitney Houston and more. Jay-Z and Keys' husband, Swizz Beatz, performed "On to the Next One," and Jay later performed "Empire State of Mind." Monae also hit the stage, as did Keys and Sade, who performed a duet, "Love Is Stronger Than Pride." "It's my heart and soul," Keys told MTV News about the organization she co-founded. "Since the beginning, we've been very driven to do incredible work. I'm proud to show what four to five women who are very dedicated can do." The organization benefits children and families who have been affected by AIDS but can't afford to purchase medicine; the event reportedly helped raise $2.4 million. This year, Keep a Child Alive introduced the "Buy Life" T-shirt. The shirt features a large barcode on the garment; donors can buy the shirt and scan the code with their smart phones to make a donation to the charity. Every time the code is scanned by a phone, a donation goes through. Ryan Seacrest, Kim Kardashian and Katie Holmes are among the celebrity spokespeople appearing in ads for the shirt. "It's like a dream to me to be among these people singing and performing, and opening people's eyes to what Keep a Child Alive can do," Keys said. Related Artists |
| Common Challenges Young People To 'Get Schooled' Posted: 01 Oct 2010 04:46 AM PDT 'We want you to be better and to achieve your dreams,' MC tells MTV News.
Common is known as a top-flight MC who is also working the Hollywood circuit as a budding actor, but he maintains that his success is rooted in his education. The son of an educator, Common knew that, regardless of the path he chose in life, a solid educational background would help him rise to the top. "My mom was a teacher, so from the beginning, I knew I had to be well-educated and well-versed in different aspects of education," Common told MTV News at a Get Schooled event in Philadelphia, which was also attended by fellow MC Freeway and songbird Marsha Ambrosius.
The "Go" spitter said hitting the books early on allowed him to cultivate the skills he needed to crank out hip-hop hits. "Education provided me [with] a foundation to go out and really pursue my dreams, 'cause it gave me the knowledge that I needed for many aspects of writing and just learning business and different things like that," Common explained. "Education just provided that foundation, so I appreciate it. I'm still wanting to learn more." Just like his mother did, Common is asking young people to make the most out of their time in school, because then they'll be armed with the expertise to make the most out of their dreams. "To my young people out there, I want to encourage you to step up to the Get Schooled Challenge," Common said, urging students to excel in their studies and imploring those who have dropped out to head back to school. "It's time for us to improve. We want our lives to improve, we want you to be better and to achieve your dreams," he continued. "So you can go to GetSchooled.com to find out more, but I'm here to challenge you." Stay tuned to MTV News for more information about how you can get the president to speak at your commencement celebration at the end of this school year. Get Schooled is a national program aimed at increasing high school and college graduation rates and promoting the importance of education, developed by Viacom in partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Related Artists |
| Rihanna Dishes On New Album <i>Loud,</i> Acting In 'Battleship' Posted: 01 Oct 2010 01:19 AM PDT 'I didn't want the generic pop record that Ke$ha or Lady Gaga or Katy Perry could just do,' singer tells BBC Radio.
With the release of her new album, Loud, Rihanna is focused on distinguishing herself from her fellow pop star peers. In an interview with the BBC's Radio 1, the singer dished on an array of topics, including the LP, collaborations and how pursuing her feature-film debut, "Battleship," peaked her sudden interest in acting. "I can't believe it's the fifth album already," she gushed to host Scott Mills. "That's insane to think about. ... I've never been this excited about anything I've done creatively, and this is just the perfect Rihanna album: Every song is tailored to me." During the making of the album, the singer had a particular agenda in mind: "I wanted songs that were all Rihanna songs, that nobody else could do. I didn't want the generic pop record that Ke$ha or Lady Gaga or Katy Perry could just do and it'll work. I wanted a song, or songs, that were Rihanna songs, that only I could do, had that little West Indian vibe to it, had that certain tone, a certain sass and a certain energy." Noticeably aware of the trends in today's pop scene, Rihanna explained it's easy to croon to a tune that just about anyone else could sing. "It's really easy to do that because of the whole dance-music movement happening right now," she said. "It's easy to get a dance beat and just throw a song on top of it and call it a hit." The songstress made her mark on the summer hit "Love The Way You Lie," which was the talk of the town, as Eminem and Rih tackled the struggles of domestic violence in the track and the video. Calling their collaboration "amazing," Rihanna admitted that the Detroit MC intrigued her to no end. "He's just so mysterious," she said of Em. "It makes you curious as to what's going on in his mind. I feel like I could ask him a million questions in a day." After finding success with the hip-hop heavyweight, the colorful pop star revealed she is in talks with Katy Perry about a duet. "Actually, we're talking about it right now," she affirmed. "Something fun, something out of the box. I would love that. I hope so." Denying claims that she is engaged to boyfriend Matt Kemp, the singer also dished a little bit about Perry and comedian Russell Brand's relationship. "Actually, he's awesome," she said about Perry's fiancé. "Even before, when she told me about them two, I was just like 'Duh, it makes sense. What took that so long?' They're perfect for each other. Their personalities really, really match. They mend. Russell is definitely more out there than Katy, but Katy's crazy and she's fun and she's funny, and they have a similar sense of humor, and they get along really well." Last month, the girls hit up Las Vegas for Perry's bachelorette party, which Rihanna revealed included a trip to a club, with female strippers and lap dances. Despite her continuous schedule, the singer, who has already shot music videos for Loud's first two singles ("Only Girl (In The World)" and "What's My Name?") isn't interested in taking a break. "You know what? I love making music," she said. "Music is what I do, so I don't feel like there should be a break unless I chose to take a break. There's no such thing as taking a break if you don't want to. I'm here to make music." Her goal to stand out amongst the pack has also inspired her recent change in hair color. "I wanted something that was a new look," she said. "Something, again, that wasn't the typical. Black hair is my favorite color on me. I wanted something that was really expressive and vibrant." During her grueling promo blitz for the album, Rihanna has set aside time to film her first movie, "Battleship," which also stars "True Blood" star Alexander Skarsgård, Taylor Kitsch and model Brooklyn Decker. "Right now, we have a break from the movie, but I'll be back in November to wrap that up after the album comes out," the singer said. "It's been really, really good so far. Working with Peter Berg is unbelievable. I love doing movies now. It's something I want to do more of. I just want to pick films that are wise for me and roles that I can pull off, nothing that is too big for me." For those that find the singer's growing interest in acting a surprise, they're not alone, as the 22-year-old revealed that it wasn't until "Battleship" that she found out she was so heavily interested in making films. In the Hasbro-inspired film, Rihanna will play a knowledgeable weapons officer named Raikes, who she describes as "really intelligent, but really, really bad ass." Fortunately, the Barbadian singer's early schooling helped her prep for the role. "I have shot some weapons before, when I was in cadets in school, so having that little background really, really helped when I was doing this film," she explained. After the much-talked-about Britney Spears episode of "Glee," Rihanna told the radio host she would definitely participate in an episode of the hit Fox show. "That will be fun," she said. Which of Rihanna's projects are you most excited for? Sound off in the comments below! Check out everything we've got on "Battleship." For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com. Related Artists |
| Before Tyler Clementi's Suicide, Rutgers Planned 'Project Civility' Posted: 01 Oct 2010 03:28 AM PDT Discussions about bullying, violence and technology already were scheduled at university.
Tyler Clementi has been described as a sweet, shy Rutgers University freshman and accomplished violinist. The 18-year-old jumped to his death from New York's George Washington Bridge on September 22 after his roommate allegedly posted video of Clementi's dorm-room encounter with another male student. His death came just days before the campus launch of Project Civility, a two-year initiative aimed at fostering respect and politeness among Rutgers students.
The long-in-the-works program, which involves panel discussions, workshops and lectures, launched Wednesday night — the same night police pulled Clementi's body from the Hudson River — with a speech by Pier M. Forni. A Johns Hopkins University professor of Italian literature and civility expert, Forni has overseen similar projects around the country. MTV News visited the New Brunswick, New Jersey, campus of Rutgers on Thursday to talk to students about Project Civility and what impact Clementi's death might have on their plans to promote kindness among peers. Scott Lazes, who produced a short documentary on the project, said news of Clementi's suicide broke just as Wednesday night's kick-off event was unfolding. "What's really interesting is that the next two lectures — the immediate next one is about civility and bullying and violence, and the lecture in November is about technology," Lazes said about the "Uncivil Gadgets? Changing Technologies and Civil Behavior" discussion slated for the fall. "All this sort of converged at once, and I'm not one to really believe in fate or predestination, but I could not avoid the feeling like this project was meant to happen." Lazes said there have been a lot of questions from the local and national media about what Rutgers is going to do to respond to Clementi's suicide. "The truth is: We were planning on raising awareness of civility on campus for a long time now," he said of Project Civility, which has been in the works for almost a year. "We've been thinking about this for a long time, and it's just remarkable that all of this converged at the launch of the initiative." Whether they attend because of the notoriety surrounding Clementi or because they're simply curious, Lazes is optimistic that the campus will check out the Project Civility lectures, which he hopes will lead to lots of discussions and progress on the issue. "This isn't something that's exclusive to Rutgers; this could have happened anywhere," he said. "This is a societal problem — bullying, cyberbullying — so I think that it is everyone's problem to address how we're interacting online and how we're treating one another in person as well." Clementi's roommate, Dharun Ravi, 18, and his childhood friend, Molly Wei, 18, allegedly posted a live feed of Clementi on Skype last week, boasting about it on Twitter. "Roommate asked for the room till midnight," Ravi, 18, tweeted on September 19. "I went into Molly's room and turned on my webcam. I saw him making out with a dude. Yay." Ravi is also alleged to have tried to broadcast a second encounter a few days after the first. Ravi and Wei have been charged with two counts of invasion of privacy for using "the camera to view and transmit a live image" of Clementi, which carry maximum sentences of five years. Ravi also was charged with two additional counts of invasion of privacy for trying to post a similar live feed on September 21, the day before Clementi's suicide. While it is unknown if the posting of the video drove Clementi to commit suicide, and no one has come forward to discuss his sexual orientation, The New York Times reported that after the inaugural Civility program Wednesday night, about 100 demonstrators gathered outside the student center chanting, "Civility without safety — over our queer bodies!" Rutgers attendees are not alone in feeling sad about Clementi's suicide, as everyone from Nicki Minaj to Perez Hilton and hundreds of online members of Clementi tribute sites have posted comments and videos offering messages of hope to teens who are struggling with bullying or thoughts of suicide. If you have been bullied or harassed and are contemplating suicide or need someone to speak to, MTV News has compiled a list of resources that include hotlines and testimonials offering hope for those who need it. Related Videos |
| Could Laws Have Prevented Tyler Clementi's Suicide? Students Weigh In Posted: 01 Oct 2010 03:46 AM PDT 'It's not the just the law; it's people's mentality,' one student at DNC's Gen44 Summit tells MTV News.
A rash of suicides related to anti-gay bullying, such as the death of Rutgers University student Tyler Clementi, has thrust LGBT rights and digital harassment into the national spotlight. A wide-ranging group of celebrities, including Nicki Minaj, Lance Bass, Ellen DeGeneres, Perez Hilton and Alicia Keys, have spoken out against the circumstances surrounding the suicides.
MTV News caught up with several students to talk about how they think the government can curb intolerance via legislation. The young people we spoke with believe enacting laws alone won't eradicate prejudice toward LGBT Americans. Many suggested that change needs to occur on a micro level first and individuals need to commit to social acceptance for all. "I think it's a double-edged sword. By not addressing it, you're not doing anything about the issue and you're allowing it to get worse," Abby Goldstein said at President Barack Obama's and the Democratic National Committee's first Gen44 Summit on Thursday. Goldstein added that even broaching the subject of gay rights, which has historically been a sensitive issue in America, may spark a hostile dialogue. "But, unfortunately, when you do speak about these issues and people begin to think about them and they're in the front page and they're on the headlines, I think that unfortunately this conversation can lead in a negative direction." Ana Vargas said the United States is fairly progressive when it comes to preserving gay rights but added that the issue is complicated by Americans' varied views on sexuality. "The U.S. is pretty good about this. We are the best ones around the world," Vargas said. "But I think the gay situation, it's about generations. It's not the just the law; it's people's mentality." Kahn Branch maintained that change needs to begin at the grassroots level before the entire nation can evolve. "Once we fully understand each other ... and then we begin to respect our differences, then the United States can move forward when it comes to the social matters," he said. Nicole Zuralow agreed that citizens shouldn't wait for change to come from the government and possibly look into alternative forms of political support to cultivate resources in their communities. "I think it's really important in the community to support outreach programs that may not necessarily be funded by the government but may be backed by certain political parties," Zuralow said. "I think it's important to remember that that is a big part of the community as a whole and amazing things can come from smaller programs. It doesn't necessarily have to be at the state level." What are some ways you think we can combat bullying and digital abuse? Sound off in the comments. Related Videos |
| Mario Arrested For Allegedly Assaulting His Mom Posted: 01 Oct 2010 02:22 AM PDT R&B star was apparently involved in an altercation early Friday morning in Baltimore.
R&B singer Mario was arrested Friday morning (October 1) for allegedly assaulting his mother. He was taken into custody after police came to the Baltimore apartment the singer shares with his mother, Shawntia Hardaway, who said he hit her. According to The Baltimore Sun, he was charged with second-degree assault and released on $50,000 bond. According to a statement to MTV News from the Baltimore Police Department, police found Hardaway sobbing in the lobby of their apartment on Fell Street around 12:50 a.m. She informed police that her son, born Mario Dewar Barrett, was in their home "throwing and damaging property" and "started yelling at her and he used his hands and forearms and pushed her in the chest and shoulder area causing minor pain and discomfort." Officers found a smashed mirror and closet door with a hole in it. A china cabinet was also broken and shattered glass covered the floor, the Sun reports. Hardaway also said Friday's incident was not the first time her son had assaulted her. She told police that Mario had pushed her "eight feet into a living-room wall, where Ms. Hardaway hit her head on the wall," on September 27. She "stated her head still hurts because of hitting the wall" and maintained that she feels her life is in danger. Although no specific cause has been cited for Mario's behavior, the singer's lawyer, William "Hassan" Murphy III, referenced Hardaway's substance-abuse issues in a statement to MTV News. "This is an unfortunate incident between a loving son and a mother who continues to struggle with a devastating addiction," Murphy said. "Anyone who has waged the battle to save loved ones from the forces of drugs knows the irrational behavior that almost always accompanies their actions. Despite the allegations, Mario remains committed to supporting his mother." Mario has had an admittedly rocky relationship with his mother, which he explored in the 2007 MTV documentary "I Won't Love You to Death: The Story of Mario and His Mom." In the film, Mario candidly discusses his complex bond with Hardaway, who battles heroin addiction and had declined treatment and experienced several relapses in the past. Mario, known for hits like "Let Me Love You" and "Break Up," stages an intervention for Hardaway, during which he pleads, "I want to give you the gift of life, like you gave me." She ultimately enters a rehab facility in Los Angeles. Related Artists |
| Travie McCoy Finally Addresses Katy Perry's 'Circle The Drain' Posted: 01 Oct 2010 09:12 AM PDT 'I'm just stoked that she finally has a song with some substance on her record,' he tells MTV News.
Two weeks before Katy Perry's Teenage Dream hit stores, a song from the album called "Circle the Drain" leaked, and jaws everywhere dropped.
Because though Perry has never explicitly said as much (she preferred to call the song her " 'You Oughta Know,' Alanis Morrissette moment"), "Drain" is very clearly about one of her exes. And with lines like "You fall asleep during foreplay/ 'Cause the pills you take are more your forte," it's not difficult to figure out which one: Travie McCoy, who, while dating Perry, entered a rehab facility in 2008 to deal with an addiction to pharmaceutical drugs. While "Drain" shocked many with its frank lyrics, there were some who thought that the song may have gone too far — that couplets like "Wanna be your lover/ Not your f---ing mother" and "You think you're so rock and roll, but you're really just a joke/ Had the world in the palm of your hands/ But you f---ing choked" crossed the line from being clever and came across as just plain mean. Regardless, in the time since the song first appeared, neither Perry nor McCoy has directly addressed its none-too-subtle content — until now. On Thursday, MTV News caught up with McCoy at a Hennessy Artistry event in New York, and he was more than willing to talk about "Circle the Drain." And though he said he's never actually heard the song, he does have some rather strong feelings about it. "I heard she put out a song that's about me, or about some old habits or whatever," McCoy said. "[And] I look at it like this: I'm just stoked that she finally has a song with some substance on her record. Good job." McCoy wouldn't make any further comment on the song, though he did say that he had been wondering when someone was going to ask him about it. A spokesperson for Perry did not respond to MTV News' request for comment on the matter. Related Artists |
| Josh Duhamel Praises 'Transformers 3' Newbie Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Posted: 01 Oct 2010 02:29 AM PDT Megan Fox's replacement is 'perfect for the part,' actor tells MTV News.
Josh Duhamel may be starring in the October 8 rom-com "Life as We Know It," but he soon will be leaving the world of onscreen diaper changes behind for the world of robots and explosions. And, with filming for "Transformers 3" still under way, he took some time at the New York premiere of "Life as We Know It" to dish on the third installment of the Michael Bay franchise.
"I've seen about 10 minutes of it — just the stuff we shot in Chicago — and it's pretty awesome," he revealed to MTV News. And, while he kept the details scant, he did promise that fans won't be disappointed by the blockbuster, due out next July. "It's all in Michael Bay's head, so you never know what the film's going to turn out like, but judging by the script and what we've shot, it's, I think, every bit as good, if not better than, the first two," he declared. Co-star Shia LaBeouf sang similar praises of the film to MTV News recently, noting he had also seen footage and was blown away. "It's the best movie we've made out of the three, by far," LaBeouf gushed. "I'm super-proud of this movie, man. ... It's balls out. This is the best movie we've made, period." Not only does Duhamel promise a great flick, but he is very excited by the addition of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley as Megan Fox's replacement for the film's female lead, an addition that LaBeouf has been equally stoked about. "I think she's doing a great job," Duhamel shared. "I love her attitude. I think she's a good actress. I think she's perfect for the part." Check out everything we've got on "Transformers 3." For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com. |
| Tyler Clementi Inspires Rutgers Class To Organize Protest Posted: 01 Oct 2010 01:35 AM PDT Anthropology instructor Robert O'Brien's students staged a 'die in' to protest harassment of LGBT kids.
Students on the campus of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, are still coming to grips with the national attention focused on their school in the wake of last week's apparent suicide by freshman Tyler Clementi, as well as other recent suicides by younger teens who took their lives after enduring taunts about their sexuality.
Clementi's death, following the alleged online posting by his roommate of video showing Clementi being intimate with another man, has opened up a dialogue on the campus about privacy and the need for respect among students. Robert O'Brien, an assistant instructor in the anthropology department at Rutgers, told MTV News that the subject of Clementi's death came up in his "Sexuality and Eroticism" class on Thursday night, and a number of his students "were really concerned" about what was going on and wondering what they could do about it. O'Brien said one girl in his class attended high school with the two Rutgers freshmen who have been charged in the case. His student, who had been a part of her high school's gay/straight alliance, broke down in tears over the incident, saying, "I failed. I failed Tyler and I failed them," according to O'Brien. "And that started a discussion in my class about how important the actions of students like her are," he said. "What we don't see is how many people were affected in a positive manner by her presence and what's more important is that as a straight-identified person stepping out and talking to other straight-identified people and saying, 'It's not cool to say, "That's so gay." It's not cool to harass people that way. It's not cool to engage in sexist comments.' Stepping outside of our privileged lives and trying to educate the people around us with stuff they don't know because they haven't experienced it is incredibly powerful." O'Brien invited the students to stay after class to continue talking about Clementi, and over the course of nearly three hours, they organized a protest that included more than 100 students marching across the campus, ending with 40 participating in a "die in," pretending to be dead to symbolize the number of LGBT students and youth who have committed suicide this year. Rutgers attendees are not alone in feeling sad about Clementi's suicide, as everyone from Nicki Minaj to Perez Hilton and hundreds of online members of Clementi tribute sites have posted comments and videos offering messages of hope to teens who are struggling with bullying or thoughts of suicide. If you have been bullied or harassed and are contemplating suicide or need someone to speak to, MTV News has compiled this list of resources, including hotlines and testimonials offering hope for those who are feeling hopeless. Related Videos |
| Lance Bass 'Really Shocked' By Suicides Of Gay Teens Posted: 01 Oct 2010 01:28 AM PDT 'It makes me so sad. It's an unnecessary thing to do,' the singer tells MTV News.
Like Perez Hilton, Nicki Minaj and a number of other celebrities before him, Lance Bass is speaking out about the gay teens, including Tyler Clementi, who recently committed suicide after being victims of bullying. The former 'NSYNCer says that despite how out of place you might feel now, it won't always be that way.
"I was really shocked — so many suicides so recently," he told MTV News on Friday (October 1). "You know the school year has just begun, so that obviously has something to do with it. It makes me so sad. It's an unnecessary thing to do." Bass understands the complexities of being young and gay, even if you aren't out. "I can tell you right now, when I was in high school in Mississippi, I was one of the first ones to jump on the bandwagon to make fun of a gay person, and look how I turned out," he explained. "I had the secret this whole time. And so if people can look at me and see that I was one of those bullies that, like, always made fun of gay people and I had this huge secret, there is always more to the story than you see." Bass now says he gets how hard it is to sort out your feelings as a teenager. He understands that not everyone is outgoing enough to find a support system. His advice is to try to find a small group of friends to rely on and talk to about it. You don't have to tell the world, but you should have someone you can tell. "I really didn't get picked on because I really tried to stay in the background. I tried to stay friends with every single person, but a lot of kids aren't that lucky to be able to socialize like other kids," he said. "They don't have that skill or even don't want to and those are the ones that get picked on just because they're not best friends with the most popular person or they don't have the best clothes or they might be a little more poor than someone else. They don't realize it doesn't matter right now. It doesn't matter at all." Related Videos |
| Alicia Keys, Jay Sean Speak Out About Tyler Clementi Suicide Posted: 01 Oct 2010 12:10 AM PDT 'It's really important to keep close to people that really love you,' Keys tells MTV News.
One day after Tyler Clementi's body was identified, music artists are speaking out about the tragedy. The Rutgers student committed suicide after his roommate posted a video online of Clementi and another man engaging in sexual activity.
Nicki Minaj has already reached out to her gay fans. Now Alicia Keys is speaking out, too. At Keys' annual Keep a Child Alive fundraiser, the singer said she was saddened by the news, and she urged young people to lean on loved ones. "That's really heavy and really, really sad," Keys told MTV News. "It's really important to maintain and keep close to people that really love you. And if you ever feel taken advantage of or bullied, turn it off, and go towards God and people that love you. Make sure that you hold onto them. Anyone else, get them the f--- out of your sphere." Clementi announced via Facebook his intentions to take his own life earlier this month. The 18-year-old freshman followed up on his actions, and this week authorities announced they had identified a body found in New York's Hudson River as Clementi. A spokesperson for the Medical Examiner's office reportedly said the death had been ruled a suicide. Police have charged Clementi's roommate, Dharun Ravi, and Ravi's childhood friend, Molly Wei, with invading Clementi's privacy. Prosecutors are determining whether to add additional charges that could send the pair to prison for up to 10 years. Lil Wayne protégé Jay Sean called cyberbullying tactics "upsetting." "I've always said technology, as amazing as it is, it's always such a huge downfall," he told MTV News. "I believe kids have become so desensitized by technology, because everything is funny to tweet to people, it's funny to put on YouTube. People don't respect privacy or space. When I heard about [Clementi] I was really upset. Because celebrities suffer from it, too. There used to be a time if you were performing and fell on stage, it would be heartbreaking. Now it's captured on YouTube and the world sees it forever. You can't put a foot wrong. We're all only human beings — we're not perfect." If you're a victim of cyberbullying or need help stopping digital harassment, check out MTV's "A Thin Line" website, which provides resources to help. Related Videos Related Artists |
| B.o.B Calls Obama's Gen44 Concert Most Memorable Of His Career Posted: 30 Sep 2010 10:21 PM PDT 'It really shows that we're in an era of great thinkers,' MC says of DNC summit for young leaders.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Thursday evening, rapper B.o.B helped President Barack Obama and the Democratic National Committee kick off their inaugural Gen44 Summit, a three-day program intended to cultivate the newest generation of rising leaders within the party. The Atlanta MC could hardly believe he'd been invited to participate.
"The DNC approached us about doing this about a month ago, and at the time, I didn't really want to believe it," B.o.B said of the show, which also served as a party fundraiser. "I was like, 'Really?' " The "Airplanes" rapper took the stage before Obama and senior adviser David Plouffe spoke in front of a packed house at the DAR Constitution Hall. B.o.B said it was one of the most memorable performances of his young career. "It really shows me the times that we are in," he told MTV News. "Knowing that just where I came from, being able to make music, and really voice my opinion, and be really frank and direct with my approach to music, and for the youth to receive that so well, it really shows that we're in an era of great thinkers and people who can interrupt the reality that they are in. And [to] really understand that, and be proactive, and spur creativity and do something different." Meeting the president was certainly something B.o.B didn't think he'd get to do so soon in his life. He said Obama congratulated him on his success, telling him that he and the country were proud of him. B.o.B joked in response, "Thanks, man. Appreciate that." Related Artists |
| Tyler Clementi's Death An Issue Of 'Equality,' DNC's Tim Kaine Says Posted: 01 Oct 2010 12:51 AM PDT 'We've got to model the right behavior, as leaders, if we expect our young people to learn the right messages,' he tells MTV News.
Democratic National Committee chairman Tim Kaine has been following the story of Tyler Clementi, the 18-year-old Rutgers University student who took his own life after his roommate allegedly posted a video of an intimate encounter between him and another man online, and, much like the rest of us, he is saddened and disgusted by what he's seen. When MTV News attended the DNC's inaugural Gen44 Summit in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, Kaine let it be known that he sees a direct link between Clementi's death — and a rash of other bullying-related suicides — and a spate of national policies that foster the belief that homosexuality is somehow wrong and that gays and lesbians are lesser human beings because of their sexual orientation.
Chief among those policies is "don't ask, don't tell," which forbids gays and lesbians from serving openly in the armed forces. Last week, Senate Democrats were unable to secure enough votes to block a filibuster and debate on repealing that policy, though, according to Kaine, they're determined to try again. "The president and Democrats are trying to find that path to repeal 'don't ask, don't tell,' [and] I think there's going to be a chance for us to just straight-up vote on that issue solo ... between Election Day and the end of the year," Kaine said. "We are very focused on repealing 'don't ask' [because] when you have policies at a national level — as we've had for many years — that send a message that 'Hey, somebody's second-class,' then people pick up that message, and then they treat people in ways nobody should be treated. "And so, that was what [Clementi's death] was about," he continued. "It's just basic respect and basic courtesy and dignity and equality, and we've got to model the right behavior, as leaders, if we expect our young people to learn the right messages." It should be noted that, while serving as lieutenant governor of Virginia, Kaine went on record as being opposed to gay marriage. Related Videos |
| 'A-Team' Producer Stephen J. Cannell Dies At 69 Posted: 01 Oct 2010 12:53 AM PDT Emmy winner, who died of cancer, also produced '21 Jump Street' and 'Rockford Files.'
Television producer Stephen J. Cannell died at his home in Pasadena, California, Thursday night at the age of 69. Cannell, who produced such small-screen hits as "21 Jump Street," "The A-Team" and "The Rockford Files," for which he won an Outstanding Drama Series Emmy in 1978, succumbed to complications arising from melanoma, his family confirmed to "Entertainment Tonight" in a statement. "He was surrounded by his family and loved ones," the statement reads. "Aside from being a legendary television producer and prolific writer, Stephen was also a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a loyal friend. Mr. Cannell is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 46 years, Marcia, their three children, Tawnia, Chelsea and Cody, and three grandchildren. Stephen was the pillar of strength within his family and he touched everyone he met. He will be most deeply missed." Cannell was born on February 5, 1941, in Los Angeles and grew up in nearby Pasadena. Though he struggled with dyslexia in college, Cannell began his career in television as a writer, penning scripts for "It Takes a Thief" and "Colombo," among others. He would go on to co-create and produce 40 TV shows, including "The Greatest American Hero," "The Commish" and "Wiseguy." In addition to producing, Cannell also wrote 16 novels over the course of his lifetime and sometimes appeared onscreen as an actor. He most recently graced the screen in the ABC dramedy "Castle," in which he played one of Castle's poker buddies. Fans of '60s, '70s and '80s television will also remember him from the video clip that closed out his production company's shows: Cannell is pictured typing before throwing a sheet of paper from his typewriter; the paper then animates to become the company logo against a black screen. For this, and so much more, Cannell will be remembered fondly. Please share your well-wishes for Cannell's friends and family in the comments. |
| Perez Hilton Suggests Gay Teens Find 'A Healthy Escape,' Like Music Posted: 30 Sep 2010 11:25 PM PDT 'I'd be listening to Lady Gaga's music a lot, and especially because she's such an inspiring person for young gay people,' he tells MTV News.
It's not easy being a teenager. This is especially true for young people struggling with their sexuality and the bullying that sometimes that comes along with it. And, given the string of tragic bullying-related suicides in the past few weeks, it's not surprising that so many public figures are speaking out. "My advice to anyone that's going through a really painful time right now because of gay bullying is to find a healthy escape," Perez Hilton told MTV News. "For me, when I was young, that was music. If I were a 12-year-old, a 13-year-old, a 14-year-old and school was just really unpleasant for me, I can guarantee you I'd be listening to Lady Gaga's music a lot, and especially because she's such an inspiring person for young gay people."
Another key piece of advice from the blogger would be to speak to someone and find a support system. "I would encourage kids in school that are being bullied to definitely talk to someone — a guidance counselor, their parents, their relatives — talk to anyone they can, someone older who can help them work through their issues. And if young gay kids or anyone who's being bullied or is questioning things doesn't feel comfortable talking to someone they know, I would strongly encourage them to speak to experts anonymously," he continued, citing programs such as the Trevor Project. "I can't encourage that enough. Talking to someone is so much better than keeping things bottled in." At the end of the day, Perez wants to make one thing clear: Suicide is not a way to deal with bullying. "What's interesting is ... everybody can relate to these young boys that committed suicide, because we are all freaks," he explained. "We are all different, even those of us that may seem more normal and conformed. "When I was young, I was probably bullied and made fun of just as much for being fat as I was for being gay," he continued. "It, unfortunately, is something that just happens a lot, but I think the important thing to be mindful of when you're young and going through these things is that it really is just temporary. The future is brighter. It will get better." MTV's ongoing "A Thin Line" project also provides stories and resources for anyone who believes they are being cyberbullied or who is looking for ways to stop harassment by digital means. Related Videos |
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