AJ McLean, a member of the Backstreet Boys, recognizes the distinction between his on-stage persona and his true self, Alex, and he values maintaining this separation.
While AJ McLean and the Backstreet Boys often share the spotlight, the 45-year-old performer, born Alexander James McLean, has come to understand the significance of establishing boundaries in his life. As he embarks on his wellness journey, AJ has adopted the practice of “switching off AJ” once he leaves the stage and allowing that persona to exist within the realm of the Backstreet Boys. In an exclusive conversation with E! News’ Francesca Amiker, AJ emphasizes the importance of self-worth.
He explained, “The most important thing for me is recognizing that AJ is a persona. AJ is my job, but Alex is who I am.”
AJ, a singer and father of daughters Elliott, 10, and Lyric, 6, with hairstylist Rochelle DeAnna McLean, elaborated, “Once AJ’s work is done, I become Alex. I am a husband, a father, a friend.”
By establishing these healthy boundaries between his professional and personal life, AJ has found greater contentment than ever before.
However, AJ remains proud of the achievements of his on-stage persona. He finds it heartwarming that a new generation of Backstreet Boys fans includes his own children and their friends.
He humorously commented on the passage of time as his eldest daughter enters fifth grade, saying, “It’s a bit painful to realize that I now have a fifth grader and a first grader. It means I’m getting older.” He playfully noted that many parents and teachers he meets at their school are also fans of the boy band. “Many of my oldest daughter’s friends recognize us and enjoy our music.”
AJ also shared his perspective on fatherhood, describing it as “the best job in the world.”
“I adore it,” he expressed. “It’s highly rewarding. My daughters have immense love for me, and I reciprocate that love wholeheartedly.”
However, AJ’s daughters won’t be accompanying him to Backstreet’s Back to the Beach, a multi-day concert vacation planned for an all-inclusive resort in Cancun, Mexico. Set for April 18 to 21, 2024, the event will feature two nights of performances by AJ and his fellow band members—Nick Carter, Kevin Richardson, Brian Littrell, and Howie Dorough—on the beach, along with appearances by Jason Derulo, Eric Cubeecchee, and DJ YO-C.
While AJ acknowledged that the event is adult-oriented, he clarified that it’s not because of any inappropriate or unusual activities. He explained, “This is certainly not a family destination,” emphasizing it’s an adult vacation.
Despite abstaining from alcoholic beverages during the trip, AJ assured that he plans to thoroughly enjoy himself.
“Rest assured, even while sober, I will embrace the wild side,” he humorously proclaimed. “I love to have fun. I relish spending time with my bandmates and interacting with fans.”
AJ emphasized, “I’ll be sipping on my mocktails and fully engaging in dancing and singing, ensuring a great time for everyone.”
