Britney Spears' 2002 breakup recalled by video director Chris Applebaum

Director Chris Applebaum, who shot Britney Spears' 2002 "Overprotected" music video, said the singer received a breakup text from then‑boyfriend Justin Timberlake while on set. Applebaum recalled that Spears showed him the message, "Se acabó," before returning to the studio and delivering what he considers one of her most powerful performances.

Applebaum noted she channeled the emotional turmoil into the video rather than letting the split define her work. The incident matches Spears' account in her 2023 memoir "The Woman in Me," where she confirmed Timberlake ended their three‑year relationship via text. The breakup generated extensive media coverage at the time and linked Timberlake's song "Cry Me a River" to the split. Applebaum said he remains impressed by Spears' resilience and professionalism under personal stress.