Carol Burnett will play Sue Sylvester's mother in an episode of "Glee" this fall, reports Michael Ausiello of Entertainment Weekly. Imagine Burnett tugging on her ear and singing "I'm So Glad We Had This Time Together" while wearing a track suit. The mind reels with the possibility.
It's yet another smart bit of high-caliber star casting for the Fox musical, and one that was hinted at a few weeks ago at Comic-Con. During a press conference prior to the "Glee" panel, a reporter asked each of the cast and crew members present who they would like to see make a guest appearance. Someone -- I believe it was creator/executive producer Ryan Murphy -- definitely mentioned Burnett. Those "Glee" people are so clever at making their ideas seem completely spontaneous.
At Comic-Con and during the TCA press tour, Murphy and co. also noted that the big post-Super Bowl episode of "Glee" will feature a tribute to a major pop artist, but they did not say who because negotiations are ongoing. Now that we know the Burnett news is a done deal, I say it's time to speculate as to who that pop artist might be, at least in our fantasies. Some names we can rule out: Britney Spears, since a Britney episode has already been confirmed for another episode next season; Madonna (even though they plan to do another tribute, presumably it won't be for the Super Bowl); Paul McCartney, who already will have his music featured in another episode next season; and Lady Gaga (also been done). So who could it be? Let's take some guesses.
Beyoncé: As the "Single Ladies" homages have proven, "Glee" loves Sasha Fierce. And she certainly qualifies as a major pop star. Also worth noting: while Ms. Knowles has performed the national anthem at a Super Bowl, she has yet to headline a halftime show. And I have to think that whoever winds up singing during the big game break may be the same person who gets top-tribute billing on "Glee."
Janet Jackson: Remember what I just said about the person who sings at halftime definitely being the subject of the "Glee" tribute show? Here's one scenario where that wouldn't be the case. But Jackson would make a pretty delicious choice, given her breast-baring role in the most controversial Super Bowl performance of all time, not to mention her status as pop royalty. In its own, show-tuney way, "Glee" is a show that relishes the opportunity to stick its out-and-proud thumb in the eye of authority. And what better way to do that than by putting Miss Jackson front and center? Added bonus: the entire cast could dress in military-style garb and do a "Rhythm Nation." Even better: Kurt could do a cover of "Nasty."
Prince: The idea of a Prince episode has been floated and approved in the "Gleek"-osphere. There's no question the guy certainly has an amazing catalogue of music to choose from, one that, in my humble opinion, might make "The Power of Madonna" seem slightly less powerful by comparison. But it's unclear whether he's want to do something like this. And the fact that he did the Super Bowl halftime show a few years ago makes this seem less likely.
Jennifer Lopez: If J. Lo is confirmed as an "American Idol" judge, consider this possibility all the more likely. The Super Bowl episode will air Feb. 6, 2011, most likely a few weeks after "Idol's" new season begins. Putting her on "Glee" is a cross-marketing opportunity Fox -- not to mention Lopez -- probably would not want to pass up.
Mariah Carey: The best thing about a Carey tribute is the potential for a hit-the-high-note contest between Lea Michele, Chris Colfer, frequent guest star Kristen Chenoweth, and Carey. Some people will be putting money on the big game that Sunday; if this circumstance comes to pass, the "Gleeks" would all be betting on which of these vocalists is most likely to break glass.
Out of these possibilities, which one sounds most appealing?
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