Blogging Britney's Release

By Alex Bandy

Earlier today, I was sent to the Beverly Hills Hotel to interview Clive Davis about his preparations for this year's Grammys. I'm waiting in the lobby for Clive's people to come get me and bring me to his bungalow. I'm messing with my blackberry, trying to pass the time, and I notice that Maria Shriver is in the lobby with me as well.

As I am about to e-mail this information to my Access headquarters, I hear rustling at the door. I look up and see a face anyone here at AH knows all too well -- Britney Spears!!! -- coming into the hotel, literally being pushed by a trail of paparazzi!

The doors fly open and Britney almost takes a spill as the overzealous paparazzi come tumbling into the lobby behind her. Security is scrambling and literally tossing out the paparazzi and basically anyone else that looked at all interested in Britney (When I say tossed I mean -- literally threw them out, fighting with many of them).  

It was a very loud and violent scene; one which took over the normally peaceful ambience of the hotel. I quickly retreated to the nearest corner, phone in hand, to discreetly call the Access offices without being kicked out myself.  

Britney walked over and stood next to the reception desk wearing her purple dress, a fedora hat, and sunglasses looking like a scared little girl. For the first time in my 8-year career at Access, I actually felt bad for Britney.

The scene was enough to make even the most sane person crazy! At this point, Maria Shriver walked up to Britney and said a few words, but in all the hustle-and-bustle, I couldn't make out exactly what was said.

The next thing I know, 3 or 4 huge hotel security guards came and whisked Britney away while the rest of security kept the paps out. Truly one of the most surreal celebrity experiences I've ever had! Unfortunately none of this is on camera because the interview with Clive was done using his personal crew!