Britney ousted as Pepsi pin-up

Destiny’s Child star Beyonce Knowles has replaced singer-actress Britney Spears as the new face of Pepsi-Cola.

R&B singer Knowles, who starred in summer blockbuster Austin Powers In Goldmember, is the new PepsiCo Inc spokeswoman, displacing Spears who held the job for two years.

The 21-year-old is described as “a multi-talented entertainer who has achieved tremendous success and popularity in both music and movies,” by Dave Burwick, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of Pepsi-Cola North America.

Knowles, whose film credits also include a hip-hop version of Carmen that aired on MTV and whose first solo album is expected early next year, has agreed to star in two TV commercials for Pepsi.

The campaign will also include radio and Internet ads and consumer promotions.

Pepsi may also sponsor a solo concert tour, which Knowles is considering for 2003.

“I’m thrilled to be joining so many talented entertainers who have created memorable Pepsi moments over the years,” she said.

Previous stars who’ve appeared in Pepsi ads include Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and Robert Palmer.

Spears’ contract expires at the end of this year.