Had British singer Adele raised her middle finger from the stage while she was accepting one of her Grammy Awards this month, there is little doubt that the gesture would have resulted in apologies to viewers from the network, a demand for an investigation by conservative "family" groups, and possibly a fine by the FCC. However, after doing so at the Brit Awards this week, it is she who has been the recipient of apologies. Adele gestured emphatically when she was interrupted during her acceptance speech by show host, comic actor James Corden. Later, organizers of the awards show issued a statement saying, "We send our deepest apologies to Adele that her big moment was cut short due to the live show overrunning." ITV, the network that broadcast the awards ceremony, followed suit, saying, "The Brits is a live event. Unfortunately the program was overrunning and we had to move on. We would like to apologize to Adele for the interruption." In the middle of it all was Corden, who told Adele on stage, "I am so sorry and I can't believe I'm about to cut you off. I'm so sorry." Corden later told The Sun newspaper, "I was furious and put in a horrible position. I went straight to Adele's dressing room and she was fine with me, but really upset. ... I explained to Adele that, if I had my way, we'd push the news for a minute and a half."

23/02/2012