Tag: Backstreet Boys

Posted on

AJ McLean Celebrates Sobriety Milestone Best Head Space Ever

A.J. McLean, the beloved Backstreet Boys singer, is sharing an uplifting update on his sobriety journey, revealing that he is currently in the “best head space” of his life. In a candid interview with People, published on July 10, 2025, McLean opened up about his struggles with addiction and his determination to maintain his sobriety.

At 47 years old, McLean has faced the challenges of drug and alcohol addiction since he was 22. Throughout the years, he has attempted to achieve sobriety multiple times, experiencing relapses along the way. However, this time feels different for him. “I’m sticking this one out all the way. It’s a daily thing. But I have finally done what has been suggested amongst the sober community, and my life has flipped in a positive way,” he shared.

One of the pivotal moments in McLean’s journey was a trip to Arizona, which he described as extremely beneficial for both his mental health and sobriety. “I’m a huge advocate for the mental health community, and I wanted to dig a little deeper into my own existence and really get to the root of why I did the things I did to hurt myself and the ones I loved,” he explained.

McLean emphasized the importance of establishing boundaries and separating his identity from his role as a member of the iconic boy band. “I’ve discovered new verbiage, such as boundaries, which I never really had before. Now I have those, which is a blessing. AJ is a member of a group. He is a persona, but he doesn’t define me as an individual. Alexander James is who I am,” he stated.

Despite the progress he has made, McLean has faced difficult times, including the tragic death of his Building the Band co-star, Liam Payne, in 2024. The news hit him hard, and he immediately reached out to his sponsor for support. “I was literally on a Zoom call with my team when my manager told me what had happened. I just had to step away,” he recalled. McLean leaned on his support network, including fellow co-stars Kelly Rowland and Nicole Scherzinger, during this tough time.

Throughout his long battle with addiction, McLean has checked in and out of rehab several times and has openly admitted to overdosing twice. Reflecting on his journey, he revealed that a turning point came after a particularly eye-opening moment during a Las Vegas trip. His youngest daughter, Lyric, told him, “You don’t smell like my daddy.” This moment struck McLean hard, prompting him to reevaluate his life choices and strive for change.

Today, McLean shares two children, Elliot, 12, and Lyric, 8, with his ex-wife, Rochelle McLean. His commitment to sobriety is not just for himself but also for the sake of his children. “I want to be the best version of myself for them,” he expressed.

For anyone struggling with addiction, McLean’s story serves as a beacon of hope. He encourages those in need to reach out for help, reminding them that recovery is a journey that takes time and support. If you or someone you know is battling addiction, you can contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for assistance.

As A.J. McLean continues to navigate his path to sobriety, his openness about his struggles and triumphs resonates with many, reaffirming that it’s never too late to seek help and make positive changes in life. With a renewed sense of purpose and a supportive network, McLean is dedicated to maintaining his sobriety and living his best life.

Posted on

AJ McLean Praises Baylee Littrells Impressive Songwriting Skills

In a recent exclusive interview, AJ McLean shared exciting insights about Baylee Littrell, the son of fellow Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell. Following Baylee’s debut on “American Idol,” McLean revealed that the young artist has an astonishing catalog of around 400 songs, showcasing his immense talent and creativity.

McLean, who has known Baylee since his birth, expressed his admiration for the aspiring musician. “He doesn’t really need any advice from any of us,” McLean remarked. “If anything, I’m such a big fan.” This sentiment reflects the supportive bond between the members of the Backstreet Boys and their families, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent within the next generation.

Baylee Littrell made waves during the latest season of “American Idol,” where he performed a mix of original songs and covers, including a heartfelt rendition of his father’s song “Gone Without Goodbye” from Brian’s 2006 solo album, *Welcome Home*. Although Baylee did not advance to the top 14 contestants, his emotional performances left a lasting impression on viewers and fans alike.

In an interview following his elimination, Baylee opened up about the significance of the song he chose to perform. “That song is really dedicated to [the] tragedy [of] 9/11, you know, all the victims that it affected,” he explained. Baylee’s mother, Leighanne, was meant to be on the second flight that struck the World Trade Center, making the song’s message particularly poignant for their family.

Reflecting on his experience on “American Idol,” Baylee noted the challenges of competing as the son of a famous musician. “It was hard to make friends, and it was hard for people to understand me because a lot of people had preconceived notions of how I would be,” he admitted. Despite these challenges, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I had a great experience on the show.”

AJ McLean remains a steadfast supporter of Baylee as he navigates his musical journey post-“American Idol.” He recalled a recent visit to Georgia, where he spent time in the studio with T-Pain and then visited Brian’s house. During this visit, Baylee showcased his impressive songwriting skills by performing 15 different songs, demonstrating his versatility and artistic vision.

“He’s got a catalog of probably three to 400 songs he’s written that are all insanely good,” McLean said, emphasizing Baylee’s dedication and understanding of the music industry. “He knows what he wants and he knows what’s right and wrong. He’s seen his dad go through it; he’s seen a lot in 22 years, but he’s in his own lane, and in my mind, he’s already a massive success because he is his own person.”

As Baylee continues to develop his career, McLean is optimistic about what lies ahead for him. “He can sing and do anything, honestly,” McLean stated. “I mean, he’s just beyond talented.” This endorsement from his uncle not only highlights Baylee’s potential but also reinforces the strong familial support that surrounds him.

In conclusion, Baylee Littrell’s journey as a musician is just beginning, and with the backing of his family and mentors like AJ McLean, he is poised to make a significant impact in the music industry. As fans eagerly await his next moves, it’s clear that Baylee’s passion for music, combined with his impressive songwriting abilities, will keep him in the spotlight for years to come.

Posted on

AJ McLean Discusses Positive Coparenting Journey with Rochelle

AJ McLean, the famed Backstreet Boys singer, is opening up about his journey of coparenting with his estranged wife, Rochelle McLean. In a recent exclusive interview with Us Weekly, AJ shared insights into their evolving relationship as they navigate their separation while focusing on their two daughters, Elliott, 12, and Lyric, 8.

Reflecting on their current dynamic, AJ, 47, emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive environment for their children. “We’re doing good,” he stated, noting that both he and Rochelle, 43, are committed to coparenting to the best of their abilities. “We have a family together that’s obviously not going anywhere,” he added, highlighting the enduring love they share despite their changed relationship status.

Since announcing their separation in March 2023, AJ and Rochelle have made significant strides in their relationship. AJ explained that they have been spending quality time together as a family and even going on occasional dates, which he sees as a positive development. “Now things are completely different, but I think different in a good way for both of us,” he remarked, expressing hope for their future.

The couple’s separation was not without its challenges, particularly for AJ, who has been open about his struggles with sobriety and the demands of his career. He acknowledged that there was a long period of distance between them, often due to his touring schedule and his journey toward sobriety. However, he believes that their recent efforts to reconnect have led to a healthier dynamic.

The former couple, who tied the knot in December 2011, initially decided to separate temporarily to focus on personal growth and their marriage. In January 2024, they announced their decision to officially end their marriage, stating, “It is with deep love and respect that we have made this decision.” Despite the split, AJ and Rochelle remain dedicated to their daughters and each other, emphasizing the importance of their family unit.

AJ has expressed optimism about the possibility of reconciliation in the future, stating that they are in a better place than they have been in a long time. “I think we’re in the best place we’ve almost ever been. So, you know, there’s high hopes for the future. Who knows?” he said, reflecting on their ongoing relationship.

In addition to his personal life, AJ is also making waves in his professional career. He is currently promoting his new Netflix series, “Building the Band,” which premieres on July 9. The show focuses on the journey of artists coming together to form bands based on chemistry and compatibility, a concept AJ is passionate about. He described the experience as inspiring and a testament to the incredible talent showcased on the show.

As he balances his career and family life, AJ has praised Rochelle for her dedication as a mother, especially during his touring commitments. He acknowledged the challenges of their busy schedules and the demands of parenting, calling mothers “literal superheroes” for their unwavering support.

In the midst of his busy life, AJ is focused on maintaining his sobriety and being present for his daughters. “I’m just trying to stay focused on my sobriety, my kids, spending time with my family,” he shared. His commitment to self-improvement and nurturing his relationship with Rochelle, even amidst their separation, is a testament to his growth as both an artist and a father.

As AJ McLean continues to navigate this new chapter in his life, fans can expect to see more of him, both on stage with the Backstreet Boys and as a host on Netflix’s “Building the Band.” With a focus on family and personal growth, AJ is determined to embrace the future with hope and positivity.

Posted on

Nick Carter Addresses Ozempic Rumors Weight Loss Due to Dance Rehearsals

Nick Carter, the beloved Backstreet Boys singer, has recently faced speculation regarding his weight loss, with fans wondering if he is using the diabetes medication Ozempic to achieve his slimmer appearance. However, an exclusive source has revealed to Us Weekly that the rumors are unfounded. According to the insider, Carter is not using any weight loss drugs; instead, his transformation comes from intense preparation for the band’s upcoming concert series.

Carter, 45, has been working hard, dancing and rehearsing for the Backstreet Boys’ shows at The Sphere in Las Vegas. The source shared that he has been putting in an impressive 12 hours of dance practice each day, five days a week, leading up to the highly anticipated performances. This rigorous schedule is the reason behind his noticeably thinner face, which sparked the initial rumors when he posted a selfie on June 18.

In the Instagram post, Carter captured a moment of relaxation before rehearsals, wearing a casual red Ford T-shirt and a baseball cap. While many fans appreciated the candid shot, some expressed concerns about his health, suggesting that he looked “too thin.” Comments such as “Maybe he took some Ozempic” and “He looks very unhealthy, hope he is OK!” flooded in, reflecting the concern of his followers.

Despite the speculation, many fans rallied to support Carter, defending him against the negative remarks. One user emphasized the importance of not commenting on men’s weight, stating, “Hey ladies … just like we don’t want men commenting on our weight … men don’t need to hear your opinions either.” This camaraderie among fans highlights the strong bond they share with the artist.

Carter’s personal life has not been without its challenges. He has navigated a tumultuous relationship with his late brother, Aaron Carter, who passed away in November 2022. Reflecting on their bond, Nick once shared, “My brother and I have always had an up and down relationship. We’re brothers — what do you expect?” Despite their differences, the love between the brothers was evident.

In addition to his professional commitments, Carter is a devoted father to three children: son Odin, 9, and daughters Saoirse, 5, and Pearl, 4, with his wife Lauren Kitt. He has shared glimpses of his family life on social media, showcasing tender moments like snuggling with his kids before rehearsals and celebrating Father’s Day with thoughtful gifts from them.

As the Backstreet Boys prepare for their “Into the Millennium Sphere” tour, which runs from July 11 to August 24, Carter remains focused on his health and fitness. He is dedicated to delivering an unforgettable experience for his fans, channeling his energy into the performances rather than concerning himself with unsubstantiated rumors.

In a world where celebrity appearances often spark speculation, it’s refreshing to see fans come together to support their favorite artists. Carter’s journey serves as a reminder that hard work and dedication can lead to significant changes, and sometimes, the truth is simply a matter of commitment and passion for one’s craft. As the tour approaches, fans can look forward to witnessing Nick Carter’s incredible talent and enthusiasm on stage, free from the distractions of rumors and speculation.

Exit mobile version