Pop superstar Britney Spears' family is reportedly expressing deep concern over her well-being following recent footage showing her driving erratically. The incident, which occurred last Wednesday in Thousand Oaks, California, has prompted discussions among family members regarding her safety and choices.
Key Takeaways
- Britney Spears was filmed driving erratically in Thousand Oaks, California.
- Family members are reportedly 'terrified' and discussing potential interventions.
- The behavior has drawn comparisons to events preceding her 2007 public breakdown.
- Discussions include the possibility of a new conservatorship, despite the previous one ending in 2021.
- The incident follows public accusations made in her ex-husband's new memoir.
Family Fears for Spears' Safety
Footage captured last Wednesday shows the 43-year-old singer's black BMW convertible swerving dangerously. She reportedly made an erratic U-turn, with tires screeching, and meandered into other car lanes. At one point, her vehicle entered a bike lane and also crossed a road's center divider.
Insiders close to the family describe them as "terrified" and believe Spears may be "losing control." This sentiment stems from what they perceive as a pattern of concerning behavior. The family is now engaged in urgent discussions about how to best support her.
"There's a lot of concern. Everyone has always wanted the best for her, and she's showing right now that she's making bad choices. It's terrifying. So there's a lot of talk about what to do, if anything. How can we protect her from herself?" a source close to the family stated.
Echoes of 2007
The current situation has drawn comparisons to Spears' highly publicized breakdown in 2007. During that period, she shaved her head and subsequently lost custody of her two sons, Sean Preston and Jayden James, with ex-husband Kevin Federline. The family's worry is that history might repeat itself.
Quick Facts: Britney Spears' Conservatorship
- Lasted 13 years, from 2008 to 2021.
- Overseen largely by her father, Jamie Spears.
- Ended after significant public outcry and the #FreeBritney movement.
Conservatorship Discussions Re-Emerge
Despite the controversial 13-year conservatorship ending in 2021, some family insiders are reportedly suggesting a new conservatorship might be necessary. This move would be highly contentious, given the public's strong reaction against the previous arrangement.
The previous conservatorship, which granted her father Jamie Spears significant control over her life and finances, was heavily criticized. Its termination was largely due to the vocal efforts of her fans through the #FreeBritney movement.
Background on Recent Events
Spears has been in the public eye recently not only for her personal life but also due to the release of her ex-husband Kevin Federline's tell-all memoir, "You Thought You Knew." The book contains serious accusations against the pop icon, including allegations of cocaine use while breastfeeding their children and wishing them harm.
Spears' spokesperson has responded to the memoir, stating that Federline and others are "profiting off her," especially after child support payments to him ended. The spokesperson emphasized that Spears' primary concern is her children's well-being during this period of "sensationalism."
The Dilemma of Intervention
The family faces a difficult decision. Intervening again could lead to public backlash, similar to what her father experienced during the conservatorship. However, not intervening could leave Spears vulnerable.
"The last time that Jamie stepped in to protect his daughter, he became public enemy number one. People said he was trying to grab her money, which is not true. So the question is whether anyone should step in to help her, and deal with the backlash," a source explained.
The singer herself has recently spoken out about past control, claiming in an Instagram post that she suffered "brain damage" from it. She stated, "I do feel like my wings were taken away and brain damage happened to me a long time ago 100 percent… I have of course moved on from that troubling time in my life and I’m blessed to be alive." She also accused Federline of "gaslighting" and telling "white lies" in his memoir.
Public Scrutiny Continues
The incident at the Red-O restaurant in Thousand Oaks saw Spears leaving despite others reportedly urging her not to drive. Her subsequent erratic movements on the road have only intensified public and family concern.
As the situation unfolds, the discussion around Spears' autonomy and personal safety remains at the forefront. Her representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the latest driving incident.
The pop star's career spans decades, marked by immense success and significant personal struggles. Her fans continue to watch closely, hoping for her continued well-being.