AJ McLean’s story highlights how addiction can impact anyone, regardless of status or success. Known as a member of the iconic Backstreet Boys, McLean was destined for fame, overcoming challenges like a speech impediment to shine as a singer, actor, and dancer.
In 2000, while filming the music video for The Call, McLean was offered cocaine by a so-called friend. Though he initially resisted, he eventually gave in, beginning a battle with addiction that would span nearly 20 years.
The Turning Point
For 18 months, McLean kept his substance abuse hidden from loved ones, fans, and even his bandmates. However, during the Backstreet Boys’ 2001 summer tour, Kevin Richardson confronted McLean with a powerful intervention. Initially angry and defensive, McLean ultimately recognized the need for help and entered rehab.
Despite returning to the group and continuing his career, McLean’s struggle with addiction persisted. Over the years, he sought treatment multiple times for substance use, anxiety, and depression. His journey was marked by cycles of sobriety and relapse, as he admitted to using substances to numb emotional pain and insecurity—only to face those feelings when the effects wore off.
McLean’s journey reflects the complexity of recovery and the resilience required to confront addiction repeatedly.
The Wake-Up Call: AJ McLean’s Turning Point
AJ McLean’s pivotal moment in his recovery journey came from an unexpected source.
In late 2019, McLean flew to Las Vegas for a concert and planned a night of partying before returning home to his wife and two daughters. Convincing himself it would be just one night, he believed as long as he didn’t smell like alcohol, his wife, Rochelle, wouldn’t suspect anything. However, the night spiraled out of control, and he returned home smelling strongly of booze.
McLean and Rochelle had a rule: if he smelled like alcohol, he couldn’t interact with their children. That night, his three-year-old daughter, Lyric, approached him and said, “You don’t smell like my daddy.” Those words hit him hard, marking a breaking point after years of struggling with addiction.
In desperation, McLean turned to prayer, asking for help. Drawing strength from Rochelle and his daughters, he returned to rehab. Since then, McLean has maintained his sobriety, supported by a sponsor and regular 12-step meetings. Today, he embraces a fulfilling and sober life, proud of his progress, and is committed to his recovery.
McLean’s story is a testament to the possibility of transformation, even after years of challenges. For anyone facing similar struggles, help is available—recovery is within reach.
