In terms of celebrities, the media loves a train wreck, and crowds can be counted on to watch the carnage. But people also like the wreck redeem itself…or have a further wreck. In either case, it still can be very entertaining.  After her disastrous, seemingly zombie-tranquilized appearance last year, Britney Spears will once again kick off the MTV Video Music Awards show.  

It wasn’t lost at MTV that Spears’s appearance in 2007 boosted ratings by 23% over the previous year. 

Although Britney will not be doing a musical performance as she did last year, MTV president Van Toffler promises something “fun and unexpected” on Sunday night’s show.  ”I think, for Britney, people are rooting for her, and she’s really on the road to recovery.”  Toffler touted that MTV had nominated Britney for three VMAs, including Video of the Year for her clip “Piece of Me.”

“It’s unclear exactly what Britney has up her sleeve,” teases MTV.com.  Toffler adds, about her past appearances: “Britney has done everything from perform with a snake, lock lips with Madonna, and prove that what happens in Vegas doesn’t always stay in Vegas. I can’t wait to see what she does to kick off this year’s show.”

Britney seems to  have cleaned up her tabloid-frenzied life recently, even appearing in fit-looking summer bikini shots.  Says Spears: “MTV has long played an important role in my career. How can I not be there to kick off their 25th VMAs? I’m excited to open the entire show, say hi to my fans, and be nominated.” 

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