AJ McLean Credits Pandemic Lockdown for Sustained Sobriety, Shares Backstreet Boys’ Future Plans, and Highlights the Power of Recovery with Cheryl Burke

In an era where many have succumbed to increased stress and substance use, Backstreet Boys member AJ McLean has turned the global pandemic into an unexpected catalyst for profound personal growth. Celebrating a significant milestone, McLean recently marked one year of continuous sobriety, an achievement he attributes, in part, to the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 lockdown. This challenging period, characterized by unprecedented global disruption, paradoxically provided the environment AJ needed to solidify his commitment to a clean lifestyle after a two-decade-long battle with substance abuse.

Speaking exclusively with HollywoodLife, AJ McLean reflected on this pivotal year, emphasizing the extraordinary difficulty of the times. “To be able to be sober for a year for the most challenging year that I’ve been alive, ever, the most challenging year,” McLean stated, highlighting the immense obstacles overcome. His journey to a year of sobriety culminated on December 8th, a testament to his unwavering dedication amidst a backdrop of global turmoil. The year 2020 presented an array of complexities—from political unrest and racial injustice to the pervasive fear and uncertainty brought by the pandemic. Yet, through it all, AJ, 42, found strength and solace in his recovery program. “Between politics, between a pandemic, between racial injustice, between all of this insanity that has happened this year,” he reiterated, “To be able to stay sober and to really commit to it is an absolute blessing and a testament to this program.”

This perspective contrasts sharply with broader societal trends. While studies reported by NPR indicate that American adults have increased their alcohol consumption by 14% during the pandemic months, AJ McLean found the enforced shutdown to be a surprising advantage in his sobriety journey. For AJ, the lockdown effectively removed many of the external pressures and temptations that often accompany a high-profile career, particularly one involving extensive touring. He explained, “Literally, since I got back from our South American leg March 16th, March 19th, we went into a lockdown.” This sudden halt to his usual routine created a unique opportunity for introspection and a structured approach to recovery.

The enforced isolation, far from being detrimental, became a foundation for a new, robust support system. AJ quickly established a routine with a group of sober friends, committing to daily virtual meetings. “A bunch of my sober friends and I — we started a Zoom every day at 4:30, and it’s been going on every single day, 7 days a week,” he shared. These consistent check-ins provided a vital sense of community and accountability, demonstrating how technology can bridge distances and reinforce crucial support networks during challenging times. The ability to maintain these connections from home, away from the typical triggers of touring and public life, proved invaluable for AJ’s sustained recovery.

AJ further elaborated on how being off the road contributed significantly to his success. “The fact that I’m not on the road right now, to be able to be home and to really have to look at myself and face this thing head-on but to have an outlet with my sober friends and now Cheryl being a big part of my life and her and I being able to share our experience and hope with each other on and off the show, it’s been a great time.” This period allowed him to confront his challenges directly, without the distractions and temptations inherent in constant travel and performance. The pandemic, therefore, became a silver lining, a period of forced stillness that facilitated deep personal work. He candidly admitted, “To be honest, I see the silver lining in this pandemic for me personally. This has been a really good thing for me because had I been on the road, who knows if I would’ve stayed sober.” This powerful admission underscores the critical role environmental factors play in recovery and how an unexpected global crisis provided a unique window for healing.

Cheryl Burke’s Parallel Journey and Healthy Outlets

AJ McLean’s journey is closely mirrored and supported by his Pretty Messed Up podcast co-host and former Dancing With The Stars partner, Cheryl Burke. Cheryl, 36, recently celebrated her own impressive milestone of two years of sobriety, demonstrating a shared commitment to a healthier lifestyle. She openly discussed her approach to managing her addiction, transforming negative impulses into creative endeavors. “I now put my addiction into ornaments, clearly, behind me,” she humorously noted during the exclusive interview with HollywoodLife, pointing to decorative items. Her new passion for arts and crafts, specifically diamond painting, serves as a constructive and healthy outlet. “Literally, I’m into arts and crafts. Is it another addiction? Maybe. But it’s a lot healthier, that’s for sure,” she quipped, emphasizing the positive shift in her coping mechanisms.

The synergy between AJ and Cheryl extends beyond their personal sobriety. Their partnership on the Pretty Messed Uppodcast provides a platform where they can openly discuss their experiences with addiction, recovery, and mental health. This candid approach offers listeners valuable insights and fosters a sense of community for those facing similar struggles. Their ability to share their vulnerabilities and successes, both on and off the air, strengthens their bond and amplifies their message of hope and resilience. Their honest discussions help destigmatize addiction, making it easier for others to seek help and understand that recovery is a continuous, evolving process supported by dedication and strong community ties.

The Impact of the *Pretty Messed Up* Podcast

The Pretty Messed Uppodcast, co-hosted by Cheryl Burke, AJ McLean, and Rene Elizondo Jr., is more than just an entertainment vehicle; it’s a beacon for open conversations about life’s challenges, particularly those related to mental health and addiction. Presented by iHeartRadio, the podcast provides a safe space for its hosts to delve into their personal struggles and triumphs, offering listeners relatable stories and practical coping strategies. By sharing their journeys publicly, AJ and Cheryl contribute significantly to breaking down the stigma associated with seeking help for addiction. They demonstrate that even those in the spotlight face profound personal battles and that recovery is not only possible but also deeply rewarding.

The format of the podcast allows for authentic, unscripted discussions that resonate with a wide audience. Listeners gain insight into the day-to-day realities of maintaining sobriety, the importance of a strong support system, and the continuous effort required for self-improvement. The hosts’ willingness to be vulnerable creates a powerful connection with their audience, fostering a community built on shared experience and mutual understanding. This dedication to transparency makes *Pretty Messed Up* a valuable resource for anyone navigating their own “messed up” moments, offering a blend of celebrity insight and universal truths about resilience and recovery.

Backstreet Boys’ Exciting Plans for 2021 and Beyond

Beyond his personal triumphs, AJ McLean also shared exciting updates regarding the future of the Backstreet Boys. The iconic boy band recently thrilled ’90s fans worldwide by releasing a highly anticipated duet with pop superstar Britney Spears, fulfilling a long-held dream for many nostalgic listeners. This collaboration underscored the enduring legacy and continued relevance of the group, proving their ability to surprise and delight their dedicated fanbase.

Looking ahead to 2021, AJ hinted at ambitious plans for the Backstreet Boys, particularly in the realm of holiday music. “We’re still talking about it, trying to find out how we’re going to make it happen for next year, but we’re talking about songs now,” AJ revealed, confirming that new festive tunes are on the horizon. He added, “Next year, the next thing you’ll hear as a group will be a Christmas album.” This announcement is sure to ignite excitement among fans, who can anticipate a fresh collection of holiday classics and perhaps some original seasonal tracks from one of music’s most beloved groups. A Christmas album offers the Backstreet Boys an opportunity to showcase their signature harmonies in a festive context, appealing to a broad audience and adding another cherished chapter to their illustrious career.

The news of a forthcoming Christmas album signals a vibrant future for the Backstreet Boys, demonstrating their continued creativity and desire to connect with their audience in new ways. While fans eagerly await the details of the holiday project, they can continue to draw inspiration from AJ McLean’s unwavering commitment to his sobriety. His story, intertwined with Cheryl Burke’s parallel journey and their collaborative work on the Pretty Messed Up podcast, serves as a powerful reminder that even during the most challenging times, personal growth and recovery are always within reach. Until the festive melodies arrive, listeners can tune into the Pretty Messed Uppodcast for ongoing insights and encouragement from its inspiring hosts.