In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Joey Fatone, the well-known member of the iconic boy band *NSYNC, shared revealing insights into the dynamics of the group and the distinct personalities of its members. Fatone, alongside fellow bandmate Lance Bass, is currently hosting a new reality series called *Cocktail Wars* on E!, where they oversee various themed challenges featuring mixologists.
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During the conversation, Fatone reminisced about the group’s image during their peak in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He described himself as the “bad boy” of the band, a persona that contrasts with Bass’s depiction of himself as the “safe choice.” Bass, who came out as gay in a notable 2006 PEOPLE cover story, reflected on how their different styles appealed to diverse fanbases. Fatone playfully acknowledged that he was “the one that mommy warned you about,” hinting at a more rebellious allure.
The camaraderie between the members of *NSYNC shone through as Fatone described their various roles within the group. He specifically labelled JC Chasez as “Mr. Suave,” highlighting the nuanced charms that each band member brought to the table. “I was just flirty,” Fatone remarked, noting that while he enjoyed playful interactions, Chasez possessed a more refined sophistication.
Fatone’s observations also extended to Justin Timberlake’s unique hairstyles during the band’s early days. He recalled Timberlake’s “ramen” hair, a look that he jokingly said was “not my vibe.” He continued to reflect on the group’s appearance, remarking on how their looks contributed to their branding and the era’s trends. “We all had our moments,” he quipped, referring to their distinctive styles, with himself resembling the character Blossom and Bass likened to Ellen DeGeneres.
Beyond these anecdotes from their time in *NSYNC, the bandmates are now reunited to bring viewers *Cocktail Wars*, which premiered on August 18. The show features ten episodes filled with creative cocktail challenges judged by an array of celebrity guests, including Rachel Maddow, Lauren Graham, and others. Fatone and Bass are excited to collaborate again on this project, showcasing their personalities and fun interactions with contestants.
Another highlight for fans was a memorable reunion performance in May, where Fatone and Bass entertained audiences with their hit “It’s Gonna Be Me” during a post-show sing-along at Broadway’s *& Juliet*. The song has since gained a life of its own as a meme that traditionally marks the beginning of May, with jokes centered around Timberlake’s distinctive way of pronouncing the word “me.”
As both stars embrace their reunion and the excitement of *Cocktail Wars*, they maintain a playful yet respectful camaraderie that reveals a deep friendship cultivated over decades. Their reflections on the past not only serve as a nostalgic trip down memory lane but also establish their enduring relevance in contemporary pop culture.
With their engaging chemistry and shared history, Fatone and Bass are set to take viewers on a delightful journey through the art of mixology, blending their musical heritage with food and drink. As fans eagerly anticipate each episode, the duo’s enduring bond and star power continue to captivate audiences across generations.
As the show unfolds, it promises to deliver a blend of humour, skill, and cherished nostalgia that resonates with both loyal fans of *NSYNC* and a new generation of viewers discovering their legacy.