Backstreet Boy Member AJ McLean Defends His Bandmate Nick Carter Amid Rape Allegations
Former pop singer and Backstreet Boy alum AJ McLean is coming to his bandmate's, Nick Carter, defense. Carter is currently being scrutinized with regards to the rape accusations coming from former pop singer, Melissa Schuman.
Schuman, 33, came forward with her allegations in November of this year, after writing a detailed post on her personal blog site, Melissa Explains It All. Schuman alleged that the incident took place at Carter's apartment when she was 18 years old. The singer elaborated that she was a virgin at the time and was saving herself for marriage when Carter forcibly performed oral sex on her and led to her to his bedroom where he proceeded to rape her.
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McLean, came to Carter's defense earlier today when asked his opinion on the accusation against his friend.
"I totally support my brother. He is a gentleman and a scholar and a father and a dear friend and I completely support him. I think it's all bogus," McLean said.
McLean did, however, state that even though he doesn't think his friend is capable of committing such a crime, he does support the 'MeToo' movement and does not stand for sexual violence against women.
"I do also want to let everyone know that I do also support the #MeToo movement. I don't want anyone to discredit any victims, anyone that's been through such horrible situations in their life, but I support my brother, I think he is innocent and I love him."
Schuman, who was a member of the band, Dream, visitied the Dr. Oz Show where she spoke further on her claims. The singer also 'forgave' Carter for what he did to her. Schuman claimed that she couldn't come forward with her story at the time it occurred because she did not want to be seen as a 'attention-seeker' and feared that no one would believe her.
Schuman hopes that by coming forward more woman would find the courage to speak up against their attackers as well.
Carter has denied Schuman's claims and stated the he was 'deeply troubled' by the allegations. Carter's former dancing partner, Sharna Burgess, from Dancing with the Stars, also offered her support to Carter and defended him.
Carter is currently married to his wife, Lauren Kitt, with whom he has a son who was born in 2016.
