On February 5, The New York Times Presents released their new episode, “Framing Britney Spears.” This television special, available on both FX and Hulu, dives right into the international popstar’s lifelong career, her inevitable rise to the top, and her chaotic private life, focusing on the conservatorship she was placed under in 2008, as well as the “Free Britney” movement that emerged because of it.
The New York Times documented the life of Britney Spears through the lens of 2021, allowing for an eye-opening look into the mistreatment she received at the hands of the media, as well as her family, peers, and fans. It brings attention to the fact that Britney Spears did not simply “go crazy,” she was let down by the people she trusted.
The “Free Britney” movement emerged as a result of the conservatorship that placed Britney under the guardianship of her father. According to investopdia.com, conservatorship is when an “incapacitated” individual is legally appointed a guardian to look after their finances and are also in charge of the individuals their physical wellbeing.
It is surprising to find out that a movement that was once looked at as a conspiracy theory is now being acknowledged by the court system in California, as well as by Britney herself. Her fans and supporters are fighting to give Britney back the rights to her estate. Her father Jamie Spears denies the movement.
The episode starts by bringing focus to the drive and motivation that Britney possessed at an extremely young age. Britney was chosen to sing for The Mickey Mouse Club at the early age of 11. She showed an image of a respectable, levelheaded, rising star.
It was very interesting to watch a young, in-control Britney Spears. The documentary made it clear that Britney made most of the major creative decisions when it came to her career. Britney adjusted to her rise to fame with extreme grace, responding to even the most inappropriate of questions with an understanding smile and a well-worded reply.
Britney Spears was over sexualized by the media and the public from a terribly young age. At just 10 years old Britney was asked by a male host if she had a boyfriend. In 2021, that man would most likely lose his job, yet in 1992 that question was deemed appropriate. She was even asked about the validity of the size of her breasts on a live broadcast at only 17 years old.
The media prayed on her “innocent” youth and the public’s obsession with her sexuality. During her younger years, Britney’s virginity became a topic of national conversation. At 21, the status of her virginity was a common interview question. It was shocking to watch this young girl get sexually harassed by adults and have to answer these highly inappropriate questions.
As Britney grew into adulthood, the paparazzi and media became relentless. She was photographed shaving her own head and heavily partying, all while fighting with her ex-husband over the custody of their two sons. Her mother believes that during this time Britney was suffering from untreated/undiagnosed post-partum depression. If society were to witness these events in 2021, Britney would have been receiving the help she desperately needed rather than being mocked through the media.
It was also ironic to see ousted sexual predator Matt Lauer, once a respected news anchor, insinuate that Britney was a bad mother for the entirety of their interview.
The battle to “Free Britney” does continue; however, a small victory was recorded on February 11, 2021 when the California justice system granted Bessemer Trust as co-conservator, along with Jamie Spears. Bessemer Trust and Britney’s father will share equal power of Britney’s finances.
While the “Free Britney” movement has gained much momentum in the past few years, there is still work to be done and this television special will hopefully provide more support that Britney Spears needs.
