Backstreet's AJ back in rehab

Even as the Backstreet Boys ready to hit the road with the New Kids on the Block this summer, news filters in that AJ McLean is back in rehab.

TMZ quotes sources close to the pop star as saying he has been "out of control" in recent weeks due to issues with substance abuse. Reportedly, he was under the influence during much of the Backstreet Boys cruise last month. He allegedly entered rehab, his third time in a decade, because his issues were affecting the planning stages of the NKOTBSB tour, set to begin this June, MTV News said, quoting TMZ.

A rep for the singer had not responded to requests for comment at press time.

However the singer did leave some messages for his fans on Twitter that alluded to a possible upcoming stint in rehab. "Thank u all for my bday wishes and tweets:)! Its gonna be a great year! I love u all and wish me luck! I start my sober journey tomm! Ttfn!" he wrote January 9. One day later, he added, "Hey all wish me luck! This is gonna be an amazing year for me and all around me! I love u all and appreciate all the love and support"

McLean previously entered rehab in July 2001, just as the Backstreet Boys planned to kick off their Black & Blue world tour. He also went to rehab the following year in 2002.

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