ABC censors are said to be “freaking out” ahead of risqué performances from Jennifer Lopez and Megan Thee Stallion at Sunday night’s American Music Awards, Page Six is exclusively told.
A source said Lopez, 51 — whose sexy Super Bowl halftime performance with Shakira sparked more than 1,300 complaints to the Federal Communications Commission — is set to perform a “steamy” duet at the AMAs with Colombian singer Maluma, featuring their tunes “Pa’ Ti” and “Lonely,” around 9 p.m.
“WAP” rapper Megan Thee Stallion, meanwhile, is slated for a “sultry” set about 30 minutes into the broadcast, the source said.
Some of the halftime show complaints compared Lopez and Shakira’s act to a “porno show” or “strip club act.”
This year’s AMAs, hosted by Taraji P. Henson, are being broadcast live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. As COVID-19 cases continue to rise throughout the country, a spokesperson for Dick Clark Productions described to Rolling Stone the show’s health and safety precautions.
“Anyone entering the AMAs footprint is tested in advance, and testing continues with frequency throughout the wrap of production,” the spokesperson told the publication.
“Everyone inside our footprint, with the exception of artists on stage who are singing or speaking, will be wearing facial coverings and maintain social distancing at all times. When artists are not on stage singing, presenting, or accepting an award, they will be wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, we disinfect our set every evening and in between performances during pre-production, rehearsals and in the live show,” the spokesperson continued.
Billie Eilish, Katy Perry and BTS are also part of the star-studded lineup, as well as The Weeknd, who will perform with Kenny G.
“Bachelorette” Tayshia Adams has been tapped as a presenter, in addition to Kristin Cavallari, Ciara, Anthony Anderson and Megan Fox.
The 2020 American Music Awards airs Sunday at 8 p.m. on ABC.