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Will Brit Sit Out MTV While Justin Takes Center Stage?

Tue., Aug. 21, 2007 12:57 PM PDT by Marc Malkin

Kevin Mazur/WireImage.com, Steve Granitz/WireImage.com

I’m talking about the MTV Video Music Awards on Sept. 9 in Las Vegas.

As I reported first, Spears may be the opening act of the big shindig. Then Mindfreak illusionist Criss Angel confirmed my exclusive when he told People magazine he’s working with Spears on the gig.

Well, now things may have hit a snag. I’m told talks between Spears and MTV may have cooled, and the embattled pop princess may not appear after all.

Guess who else has apparently been in talks to perform? Spears’ ex Mr. Justin Timberlake.

Timberlake and Beyoncé have the most nominations this year, with seven apiece.

Timberlake’s rep confirmed he’ll be attending the VMAs but referred questions about a possible performance to MTV. A rep for MTV did not comment.

This isn’t J.T.’s only possible upcoming awards-show gig. As I first reported last week, Timberlake and funnyman Andy Samberg are in talks to perform their Saturday Night Live “Dick in a Box” skit at the Emmys on Sept. 16.

The racy number is nominated for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics.