1.
Which Cincinnati Red Sox earned a lifetime ban for betting on Major League Baseball games?
Correct Answer
D. Pete Rose
Explanation
Pete Rose earned a lifetime ban for betting on Major League Baseball games. He was a player and manager for the Cincinnati Reds and was found to have bet on games, including those involving his own team. This violated the rules of the MLB, which strictly prohibits any form of gambling by players and managers. As a result, Rose was banned from participating in any MLB-related activities, including being eligible for the Hall of Fame.
2.
In Major Baseball, BALCO is associated with which type of outlawed behavior?
Correct Answer
D. Steroid use
Explanation
BALCO is associated with steroid use in Major Baseball. BALCO, which stands for Bay Area Laboratory Co-operative, was a company involved in the distribution of performance-enhancing drugs, including steroids, to athletes. It gained notoriety in the early 2000s when it was revealed that several high-profile baseball players were using their products. The scandal brought attention to the issue of steroid use in professional sports and led to increased testing and stricter penalties for athletes found guilty of using banned substances.
3.
Which "Pee-Wee's Playhouse" comedian was arrested for indecent exposure in 1991?
Correct Answer
A. Paul Reubens
Explanation
Paul Reubens is the correct answer because he is the comedian who portrayed the character Pee-Wee Herman in the television show "Pee-Wee's Playhouse." In 1991, Reubens was indeed arrested for indecent exposure, which caused a significant controversy and temporarily halted his career.
4.
Which athlete and singer, both married to other people, began dating in 2008?
Correct Answer
C. Madonna and Alex Rodriguez
Explanation
Madonna and Alex Rodriguez began dating in 2008 while both of them were married to other people. This suggests that they started a romantic relationship despite being in committed relationships with their respective spouses.
5.
For what was actor Shia LaBeouf arrested in July of 2008?
Correct Answer
C. DUI
Explanation
In July of 2008, actor Shia LaBeouf was arrested for DUI. This means that he was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Driving under the influence is a serious offense as it endangers not only the driver's life but also the lives of others on the road. It is illegal and can result in fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.
6.
Annie Leibovitz made headlines with a 2008 "Vanity Fair" cover of which Disney star?
Correct Answer
B. Miley Cyrus
Explanation
In 2008, Annie Leibovitz gained attention for photographing Miley Cyrus for the cover of "Vanity Fair" magazine. The photo caused controversy due to Cyrus' semi-nude appearance, as she was only 15 years old at the time and known for her role as a Disney star on the show "Hannah Montana". The image sparked debates about the sexualization of young celebrities and raised questions about Cyrus' transition from a child star to a more mature image.
7.
Which pop star made headlines in February 2007 by shaving off all of her hair?
Correct Answer
D. Britney Spears
Explanation
Britney Spears made headlines in February 2007 by shaving off all of her hair. This event caused a media frenzy and sparked widespread speculation about her mental health and personal life. It was seen as a symbol of her public breakdown and marked a significant turning point in her career.
8.
What was the name of Paris Hilton's 2004 sex tape?
Correct Answer
D. One Night in Paris
Explanation
The correct answer is "One Night in Paris." This is the name of Paris Hilton's 2004 sex tape.
9.
In 2008 which late night host was being blackmailed?
Correct Answer
A. David Letterman
Explanation
In 2008, David Letterman, the late-night host, was being blackmailed. This incident became public when Letterman himself revealed it on his television show. He admitted to having sexual relationships with his female staff members and being extorted by a CBS producer who threatened to expose his affairs. Letterman reported the blackmail to the authorities, leading to the arrest of the producer. This scandal garnered significant media attention and had a lasting impact on Letterman's reputation.
10.
Which singers' relationship ended in 2009 with a public incident of domestic abuse?
Correct Answer
B. Rihanna and Chris Brown
Explanation
In 2009, Rihanna and Chris Brown's relationship ended with a public incident of domestic abuse. This refers to the highly publicized incident where Chris Brown physically assaulted Rihanna, leading to their breakup.
11.
Which British punk rocker was charged with killing his girlfriend, Nancy Spungen, in 1977?
Correct Answer
D. Sid Vicious
Explanation
Sid Vicious was a British punk rocker who was charged with killing his girlfriend, Nancy Spungen, in 1977. This incident occurred during a tumultuous time in Vicious' life, marked by drug addiction and a volatile relationship with Spungen. Vicious was arrested and stood trial for her murder, but died of a heroin overdose before the trial could be concluded. The circumstances surrounding Spungen's death remain controversial and have been the subject of much speculation and debate within the punk rock community.
12.
Which song did Marilyn Monroe sing to John F. Kennedy on Saturday, May 19, 1962?
Correct Answer
D. Happy Birthday, Mr. President
Explanation
Marilyn Monroe sang "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" to John F. Kennedy on Saturday, May 19, 1962. This song is famous because it was performed at a birthday celebration for President Kennedy at Madison Square Garden. Monroe's sultry rendition of the song became iconic and is often associated with her and the event.
13.
According to a Kanye West on September 2, 2005, who did George W. Bush not care about?
Correct Answer
C. Black people
Explanation
In a televised fundraising event for Hurricane Katrina victims, Kanye West made a controversial statement criticizing George W. Bush's response to the disaster. He claimed that the former president did not care about black people. This statement sparked a significant amount of controversy and debate.
14.
Which athlete's marriage to Elin Nordegren ended in 2010 after his multiple affairs?
Correct Answer
D. Tiger Woods
Explanation
Tiger Woods' marriage to Elin Nordegren ended in 2010 after his multiple affairs.
15.
Whitney Houston once told Barbara Walters "I make too much money to ever smoke," what?
Correct Answer
C. Crack
Explanation
The correct answer is Crack. This answer is based on the fact that Whitney Houston stated she made too much money to ever smoke. This implies that she was referring to a substance that is typically associated with addiction and is expensive, such as crack cocaine.
16.
Which Oscar-winning director married his longtime girlfriend's adopted daughter in 1997?
Correct Answer
D. Woody Allen
Explanation
Woody Allen married his longtime girlfriend's adopted daughter in 1997. This caused significant controversy and public scrutiny due to the ethical implications of the relationship. The question highlights this controversial event in Allen's personal life, which is separate from his successful career as an Oscar-winning director.
17.
Which former "Playboy" model's body was found in a Florida hotel room in February 2007?
Correct Answer
A. Anna Nicole Smith
Explanation
In February 2007, the body of Anna Nicole Smith, a former "Playboy" model, was discovered in a hotel room in Florida.
18.
Which "Superfreak" spent three years in jail for assault, imprisonment, and drug charges?
Correct Answer
A. Rick James
Explanation
Rick James is the correct answer because he is the only one among the options who has a well-known history of legal troubles. He spent three years in jail for assault, imprisonment, and drug charges. Curtis Mayfield, Barry White, and Michael Jackson do not have a similar history of criminal charges or imprisonment.
19.
Which "Ugly Betty" star was stripped of her Miss America crown in 1984?
Correct Answer
D. Vanessa Williams
Explanation
Vanessa Williams was stripped of her Miss America crown in 1984. This incident occurred when explicit photos of her were published without her consent. The Miss America Organization deemed these photos inappropriate and against the values of the competition, leading to her dethronement. Despite this setback, Vanessa Williams went on to have a successful career as an actress, singer, and fashion designer.
20.
Who ran off to Africa in 2005, during production of his popular Comedy Central show?
Correct Answer
D. Dave Chapelle
Explanation
Dave Chappelle ran off to Africa in 2005 during production of his popular Comedy Central show. This sudden departure created a lot of speculation and rumors about the reasons behind his decision. Chappelle later explained that he was feeling overwhelmed by the pressure and the direction the show was taking, and he needed some time away to reflect and regain his creative control. His decision to go to Africa was seen as a way to escape the spotlight and find some peace and clarity.
21.
Whose controversial 1992 "Saturday Night Live" performance has never officially re-aired?
Correct Answer
A. Sinead O'Connor
Explanation
Sinead O'Connor's controversial 1992 "Saturday Night Live" performance has never officially re-aired. This is because during her appearance, she ripped up a photograph of Pope John Paul II as a protest against the Catholic Church's handling of the child abuse scandal. This action caused a significant backlash and led to her being banned from the show. Despite numerous re-airings of the episode, the segment featuring O'Connor has never been included, making it a performance that remains unseen by most viewers.
22.
Which "Iron Man" star made the news in 1996 with a series of bizarre drug-related arrests?
Correct Answer
D. Robert Downey, Jr.
Explanation
In 1996, Robert Downey, Jr., who starred as Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, made headlines with a series of peculiar drug-related arrests. This incident garnered significant media attention and had a negative impact on Downey's personal and professional life at the time.
23.
Which pop act was stripped of their 1990 Best New Artist Grammy for lip synching?
Correct Answer
A. Milli Vanilli
Explanation
Milli Vanilli was stripped of their 1990 Best New Artist Grammy for lip synching. This means that they were caught miming or lip syncing to pre-recorded vocals during their performances, instead of singing live. This revelation led to a loss of credibility and ultimately resulted in the Grammy being taken away from them.
24.
Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera both kissed which singer at the 2003 MTV VMAs?
Correct Answer
A. Madonna
Explanation
At the 2003 MTV VMAs, both Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera kissed Madonna. This moment became iconic and controversial, as it was seen as a passing of the pop music torch from Madonna to the younger generation. The kiss generated a lot of media attention and sparked discussions about sexuality and female empowerment in the music industry. Madonna's involvement in this moment made her the correct answer to the question.
25.
Which notorious New York nightclub was raided on Dec. 14, 1978?
Correct Answer
D. Studio 54
Explanation
Studio 54 was a notorious New York nightclub that was raided on Dec. 14, 1978. It was known for its extravagant parties, celebrity clientele, and wild nightlife. The nightclub became a symbol of the disco era and was a hotspot for the rich and famous. The raid on Studio 54 was a significant event as it exposed the club's illegal activities, including drug use and tax evasion, leading to its eventual closure.
26.
Who killed legendary Motown singer Marvin Gaye?
Correct Answer
D. His father
Explanation
Marvin Gaye was killed by his father.
27.
Which politician was busted smoking crack in a D.C hotel room in 1990?
Correct Answer
B. Marion Berry
Explanation
Marion Barry, the correct answer, was a politician who was caught smoking crack in a D.C hotel room in 1990. This incident became widely known and tarnished his reputation. Barry was the mayor of Washington, D.C at the time, and his arrest and subsequent trial created a major scandal in the political world. Despite this controversy, Barry continued his political career and was re-elected as mayor after serving a prison sentence.
28.
Who performed during the Halftime show of the 2004 Superbowl?
Correct Answer
C. Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake
Explanation
Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake performed during the Halftime show of the 2004 Superbowl. This performance is notable for the infamous "wardrobe malfunction" incident, where Justin Timberlake accidentally exposed Janet Jackson's breast on live television, causing controversy and sparking a nationwide debate on indecency in the media.
29.
Which celebrity couple's sex tape was released by IEG in 1997?
Correct Answer
C. Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee
Explanation
In 1997, a sex tape featuring Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee was released by IEG. This tape gained significant media attention and became widely known.
30.
Beatle John Lennon was shot and killed outside of which building?
Correct Answer
B. The Dakota
Explanation
The correct answer is The Dakota. The Dakota is a famous apartment building located in New York City, where John Lennon lived with his wife Yoko Ono. On December 8, 1980, Lennon was shot and killed by Mark David Chapman outside The Dakota's entrance. This tragic event shocked the world and left a lasting impact on music history.