In a nostalgic revival of early 2000s pop culture, Joey Fatone and Lance Bass performed together once more at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre in New York on 12th May 2026. The duo delighted a packed audience by singing *NSYNC’s cherished hit “It’s Gonna Be Me” during a post-show sing-along for the Broadway musical *& Juliet*. This reunion marked a joyful celebration for fans of both the band and the musical, linking past and present in a uniquely entertaining way.
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A part of a month-long event celebrating the song, the performance struck a chord with both dedicated fans and casual theatre-goers. The song has been playfully immortalised on social media and is fondly remembered for Justin Timberlake’s iconic pronunciation of “Me,” which has turned it into a viral meme each May. *& Juliet*, a musical set to Max Martin’s chart-topping hits, cleverly alludes to this internet phenomenon, further intertwining the worlds of pop and Broadway.
The anticipation of the performance was almost thwarted due to Bass’s prior commitments. He was scheduled to see the Tony-nominated musical *Titanique*, playing just a short distance away at the St. James Theatre. However, a swift dash through Times Square allowed him to arrive on stage just in time to surprise Fatone and the eager audience. Upon his arrival, Fatone jubilantly welcomed him, exclaiming, “He made it! He made it!”
Reflecting on his adventurous sprint, Bass quipped, “I almost got hit by six taxicabs, but I made it by the last note!” This light-hearted spirit embodied the evening, with both performers radiating the enthusiasm and camaraderie characteristic of their *NSYNC days.
At 49, Fatone is no stranger to the musical theatre scene. He has previously starred in *& Juliet* as the character Lance, showcasing his versatility as both an actor and singer. Additionally, he is a co-producer for the current season of *Titanique*, further emphasising his deep connection to the Broadway community.
Bass, aged 47, has his own Broadway credentials, having played Link Larkin in *Hairspray*. Together, the pair not only celebrate their musical legacies but also explore new creative avenues. They are set to host a new competition series named *Cocktail Wars*, which will debut this summer on the E! network.
Announced at the NBCUniversal Upfronts, *Cocktail Wars* promises an engaging mix of creativity and competition. The ten-part series features bartenders battling it out for the coveted £7,600 prize each week, judged by a mix of celebrities and a professional panel. In a joint statement, Bass and Fatone expressed their excitement for the show: “We’re excited to be part of *Cocktail Wars* and team up again for something this fun.”
The essence of their collaboration continues to thrive with their playful take on *NSYNC’s legacy. Bass has previously commented on the enduring popularity of “It’s Gonna Be May,” noting its peculiar status as a cultural touchstone. He remarked, “If you want to stay relevant, become a meme for the young kids out there. It keeps us alive every year.”
Fatone echoed his sentiments, highlighting the laughter and creativity surrounding the song’s legacy through endless meme variations. He stated, “I think it’s great. Again, why not run with it? It’s fun.” Their shared reflections highlight how a simple millennial hit can maintain its vital presence in contemporary culture.
As fans eagerly await more from Fatone and Bass, their reunion serves as a reminder of the unique bond formed through music, now bridging generations and continuing to inspire laughter and joy. The recent performance at *& Juliet* not only revived the spirit of *NSYNC but also reinforced the duo’s ongoing significance in the entertainment industry. As they embark on new projects together, the duo remain beloved figures in both pop and theatre, proving that nostalgia can be both timeless and exciting.