98 Degrees Age-of-Consent Manual Revealed in New Documentary
In a startling revelation from the upcoming documentary Boy Band Confidential, Nick Lachey, lead singer of the 1990s US boyband 98 Degrees, has disclosed that their record label provided them with a handbook detailing the age of consent laws across every U.S. state during their first tour. The documentary, set to premiere on Investigation Discovery, explores the darker aspects of the 90s boyband era, including abuse and financial manipulation.
Label's Precautionary Measure Sparks Controversy
Lachey explained that the manual was intended as a precaution for the band members, who were aged between 21 and 24 at the time, to navigate legal risks while touring amidst young fans. "This is going to sound super shady, but ... I remember our first tour, someone at the label gave us a book, and it was the age of consent in every state in the country," Lachey said in the documentary. "And like, we kept that book on the tour bus."
The age of consent in the U.S. varies by state, typically ranging from 16 to 18, with adults engaging in sexual activity below this threshold facing criminal charges. Lachey noted, "Unfortunately, there were people out there looking to tear you down," highlighting the pressures faced by young celebrities.
Mixed Reactions to the Disclosure
As previews of the documentary circulated, reactions were divided. On Canadian talk show The Social, one host praised the manual as "actually really progressive" for a pre-#MeToo era, while another criticized it as "creepy" for implying a need to barely stay legal. The documentary delves into the boyband boom of the 90s, featuring groups like *NSYNC and Backstreet Boys, and its associated issues.
98 Degrees' Rise and Challenges
98 Degrees achieved significant success between 1998 and 2000 with hits such as Give Me Just One Night (Una Noche), Because of You, and The Hardest Thing. They also contributed to Mariah Carey's Grammy-nominated track Thank God I Found You. The band, based in Los Angeles, included members Drew Lachey, Jeff Timmons, and Justin Jeffre.
Lachey, also known for his marriage to Jessica Simpson and hosting Netflix shows, discussed the band's financial struggles, noting they received minimal advances from Motown and often relied on public transport and fast food. He contrasted the era's lack of mental health support, stating, "You went out there and you did the show ... you didn't bow out," unlike modern artists who prioritize well-being.
Boy Band Confidential airs in two parts, with the second available on HBO Max, offering an in-depth look at the music industry's complexities during the boyband phenomenon.
