AJ McLean, a member of the iconic boy band Backstreet Boys, recently shared an exclusive update on his journey to sobriety after experiencing a relapse. The 47-year-old singer spoke with PEOPLE ahead of the premiere of Netflix’s new singing competition show, ‘Building the Band,’ where he serves as the host, expressing that he is currently in the best mental state of his life.
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Reflecting on his struggle with addiction, McLean revealed that he made the decision to get sober permanently towards the end of the Backstreet Boys’ DNA tour. Describing his commitment to sobriety as a daily challenge, McLean acknowledged the positive impact it has had on his life, mentioning that following the advice from the sober community has completely transformed his perspective.
In a previous interview with PEOPLE in October 2020, McLean had opened up about his 20-year battle with addiction to drugs and alcohol, highlighting a pivotal moment with his daughter that shifted his outlook. Despite periods of sobriety in the past, McLean expressed his determination to maintain his current sobriety, indicating that it is the most stable and solid he has ever been.
McLean, who has been focusing on self-care and well-being, shared that he now dedicates six days a week to working out, follows a clean diet, and has established a healthy balance between his personal life and career commitments. Emphasising the importance of mental health, he mentioned a transformative trip he took for self-reflection in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he delved into his past behaviours and worked on establishing healthy boundaries.
During this period of introspection, McLean discovered issues related to self-worth and self-esteem, referring to himself as a ‘persona’ within his group but stressing that his true identity is Alexander James. Through this journey of self-discovery and growth, McLean embraced the concept of self-acceptance and emphasised the importance of being true to oneself, a sentiment he carried into his role on ‘Building the Band.’
Speaking about his experience on the show, McLean expressed immense joy at being part of the project and his gratitude for joining the Netflix family. He described ‘Building the Band’ as a significant moment in his career and hinted that the show would be a game-changer in the world of singing competitions, signifying a new chapter in his professional journey post-sobriety.
AJ McLean’s candid revelations about his sobriety journey serve as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of resilience, self-discovery, and personal growth. By openly sharing his struggles and triumphs, McLean not only highlights the importance of mental health and well-being but also exemplifies the transformative impact of prioritising one’s own health and happiness.