Jackson claims that she met Gaga and knew her on a personal level before Gaga even got a recording contract, and that Jackson knew from the beginning that this was the start of something big.  Jackson says that Lady Gaga is something different for today’s music market, but I remember back in the ’80s when she was original and attractive and named Madonna.

Janet Jackson on 'American Idol' (FOX)

Janet Jackson’s new haircut made us almost painfully aware of how much the singer resembles her late brother, pop icon Michael Jackson. We’re not sure why she decided to shear off all her hair, but it’s actually a rather sexy look for Miss Jackson. We aren’t quite sure about that jumpsuit she was wearing at the end though… Not that we don’t love Janet Jackson’s lovely curves, but it wasn’t the most flattering outfit.

Watching Janet Jackson on American Idol last night reminded us not only how much we miss Michael Jackson, but how fabulous his sister really is. We’ll certainly be digging out some of our classic favorite Janet Jackson tunes to add to our iPod after hearing her perform on Idol!

>> Previously:  Crystal Bowersox on Lee DeWyze as American Idol: We Both Win

Alexander McQueen (Publicity photo)

Lady Gaga took to the Net to express her tribute to Alexander McQueen posting a photo of herself and the designer on her Twitter feed. Lady Gaga premiered “Bad Romance” at a McQueen fashion show last fall. She also wore McQueen clothing in the music video for the song.

Janet Jackson also took to her Twitter feed to pay tribute to McQueen. “Today we lost a true genius, Alexander McQueen,” Jackson said. “He possessed a unique creativity that will never be recaptured. Alexander invited me to my very 1st fashion show… There will NEVER be another!”

Pop icon Madonna released a press statement saying McQueen was a “truly unique visionary in the world of fashion… What a tragedy.”

Other celebrities, including Sarah Jessica Parker, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Ashton Kutcher and Project Runway star Christian Siriano also issued statements to the press regarding McQueen’s death. Siriano, who worked for McQueen at one time, said it was “an honor to work for him and watch him create and develop his craft over the years. I believe him to be one of the most talented artists of my lifetime.”

Sadly, the death of Alexander McQueen may spell the end for his signature fashion label as well. Without McQueen to represent his line, the Gucci Group may decide to abandon the brand, which has reportedly failed to rake in significant profits for its parent company.

Police are still investigating the circumstances of McQueen’s death. However, police reports indicate it is likely the fashion designer committed suicide.

>> Previously:  Deadliest Catch Captain Phil Harris Dead at 53

“He was the one that was administering,” Janet Jackson said of Dr. Conrad Murray. “I think he is responsible.” The interview with ABC is the first time Janet Jackson has spoken out publicly at length about the death of her brother.

“It’s been a tough year,” Jackson told Robin Roberts. “You have your days where it’s just really, it’s hard to believe. And a day doesn’t go by that I don’t think of him.” Jackson said her and the rest of the family were in shock when they heard the news Michael Jackson had died.

“It just didn’t ring true to me. It felt like a dream,” Jackson said. “It’s still so difficult for me to believe. It’s, you know, you have to accept what is. But it’s hard.”

Janet Jackson’s interview will air on ABC on Wednesday, Nov. 18.

>> Previously: Michael Jackson Autopsy Photos Real or Fake?

Fear not the possible actor’s strike, because Janet Jackson is getting into the reality TV business! Janet’s developing a music competition for MTV. No name for the show yet, which has begun casting. Miss Nasty’s gonna “mentor” a group of aspiring singers and dancers. The show will be shot in the coming months as Jackson prepares for her world tour, which begins Sept. 10. Producer Dave Broome says

“It’s really about finding who’s the next Janet Jackson or Justin Timberlake or Usher, and we’ll find it from a pool of people who you wouldn’t typically find it from. We’ll go to YMCAs, church groups, local community centers and try to cast the show.”

The show plans to take place in various street locales, rather than on a studio soundstage. Cheaper!! Producers are still working out what the prize – but it could potentially relate to Jackson’s tour. Free backup singers and dancers! Genius!

The project is the latest chapter in what has been a turbulent relationship between the channel and Janet. MTV produced the infamous Super Bowl halftime show that featured Jackson’s “wardrobe malfunction.” All is forgiven now, however, as MTV’s trying to run ANYTHING that’s better than the heinous Rock The Cradle. That crapfest had celebuspawn competing American Idol style for $100K and a record deal. Hopefully, Janet can attract some actual talent.