Jake’s Take On…Pop Bytes (Week of August 25, 2014)

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Welcome to another exciting edition of Pop Bytes!

There were a lot of interesting events that went on this week. Here are my takes on each of these events!

Miley brings a fugitive to the VMAs: In one of the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards’ most poignant moments, Miley Cyrus asked a homeless man named Jesse Helt to accept her Video of the Year Award for “Wrecking Ball.” Several outlets which included CNN, Good Morning America and USA Today reported that Jesse Helt was a wanted man that faced arrest in Oregon. Three days after the event, Ms. Cyrus angrily tweeted this. Recently, USA Today reported that Jesse turned himself in to Oregon officials.

My take: Miley did the right thing on Sunday night and redeemed herself in my eyes. I do not know what the huge fuss is all about and they should not focus on Jesse’s criminal past and concentrate on the rising issue of youth homelessness.

 

Billy Crystal’s homage to Robin Williams: In the weeks since Robin Williams’ surprising suicide, celebrities have been paying homage to the late comedy icon. But, none of their tributes could match what Billy Crystal did on Monday night’s Primetime Emmy Awards.

My take: One of the best tributes of all-time! God bless you, Mr. Crystal and we will always miss you, Robin Williams!

“Goodbye to E!” For Chelsea Handler’s final Chelsea Lately, some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry came together to say goodbye. The “We Are The World” parody left everyone in stitches. Among the stars sharing the stage with Handler included Jennifer Aniston, 50 Cent, Sandra Bullock, Miley Cyrus, Kathy Griffin, Gabriel Iglesias, Joel McHale, Tim Gunn and Marlee Matlin.

My take: I loved the “We Are The World” parody especially Fergie, Tim Gunn, Josh Gad, Alanis Morissette, LeAnn Rimes and Dave Grohl’s solos! It looks like I have to download Netflix to see Chelsea Handler!

 

Maleficent returns to OUAT: Once Upon A Time fans were ecstatic to learn that Kristin Bauer van Straten will return to the hit ABC fantasy series. Entertainment Weekly stated that she would be a recurring threat for after the show ends it Frozen arc!

My take: Kristin Bauer van Straten breathed new air into the Mistress of All Evil when she made her two appearances on Once’s breakout season! Now, I hope the Once casting directors ask Naveen Andrews, Barbara Hershey and Rebecca Mader back to reprise the roles of Jafar, Cora and Zelena respectively as the show prepares for the fifth (and possible final) season!

 

The X Factor UK returns: While The X Factor USA has gone the way of the dodo bird, the original version that started the world franchise is back with fan-favorite judges Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini (formerly Cole) and Louis Walsh at the helm! Joining the trio is AGT and former X Factor Australia judge Mel B.

My take: I think this is going to be a great season and a fantastic panel! I hope this quartet can find the next Leona Lewis, Olly Murs, One Direction, Little Mix and Sam Bailey and bring them to America.

Before I sign off, Jake’s Take wants to extend its thoughts and prayers to comedy icon Joan Rivers. We wish you a quick and speedy recovery over this holiday weekend!

I do not own the clips that are featured in this article. They belong to their production companies!