off radar
Crossroads heartthrob unrecognisable 22 years after co-starring with Britney Spears – now he’s trying to contact aliens
The popstar's former co-stars have been quick to speak out on her former troubles
A CROSSROADS hunk who starred alongside Britney Spears in the hit chick flick looks completely different after movie star fame - and a huge job switch.
Actor Anson Mount played Ben in the 2002 Georgia-based rom-com, centred on a trio of girls headed on a cross-country road trip and journey of self-discovery.
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His character played the love interest of Lucy Wagner - Britney Spears' character - who first gave the trio a lift in his chic convertable.
In the movie, he donned smart shirts and a crop of dark hair.
Yet now, aged 50, he has switched up his look and embraced his silver fox look.
He still keeps his hair short on the sides yet has grown it out on top, meaning he can backcomb it into a spiked style.
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In his Instagram bio, the Illinois-born actor describes himself as an "actor, producer, potter, daddy."
Yet the City By The Sea star also dabbles in other-worldy stuff.
He is a registered member of the board of directors of METI - or Messaging Extraterrestrial Intelligence.
The non-profit organisation creates and transmits interstellar messages in an attempt to communicate with life forms on other planets.
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The unit, based in San Francisco, also looks for laser pulses from advance civilisations.
Britney Spears and Taryn Manning star in 2002's Crossroads
Film Friends
Britney's movie star friends have stayed in touch with the star, with one speaking out about her "unfair control" amid her conservatorship battle.
Taryn Manning, 45, who played Mimi, told how the Toxic hitmaker was "strong AF" as they made their claims in 2020.
She uploaded a throwback snap showing a Crossroads scene with the caption: "Such a wonderful time with this crew! #retro #crossroads.";
"Britney I know you’re strong af and have your own brain and thought process," she continued. ";To me you look happy and like you’re having a blast!"
She then added: "Keep up the happy posts and your faith in Jesus Christ. How about instead of #freebritney we say #GodIsWatchingOverBritney," referring to the Twitter tag which had been trending.
Taryn went on to comment on Britney's conservator arrangements four years ago, which, at the time, had been extended.
The legal arrangement over her life and finances was implemented in 2007 following her public meltdown.
Orange Is The New Black star Taryn wrote: "How about let’s give this wonderful woman the dignity she deserves and earned. Until you know the facts stop speculating and perpetuating the father of lies.
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"We all know she’s under a type of control that’s unfair and things will be fixed. Have faith. Wish her well! Send good vibes of no fear! Please! #alldarknesscomestolight."
At the time, Tayrn was opening up on Britney's extension to her conservatorship, which has now been terminated.
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