Backstreet Boy Faces Drinking Problem

Backstreet Boy heartthrob A.J. McLean, 23, checked himself into rehab for depression and alcohol abuse on Monday, as his bandmates announced on MTV's "Total Request Live" that the group is suspending its "Black & Blue" world tour for the next month. "We didn't want to lie about it and push it under the rug and say that he was sick or broke his leg or something," Backstreeter Kevin Richardson said. "It wouldn't be honest to our fans." Chimed in Brian Littrell: "He came to us yesterday -- it was the first time we heard him say, 'Guys, I have a problem.' " The other Backstreet Boys are Nick Carter and Howie Dorough. Members of the "Live" studio audience, most of them Backstreet fans, cheered when the musicians entered, but their reaction turned to sobs when they heard the news about McLean. "When you're trying to help someone who has a serious illness," said Littrell, "they have to help themselves first before they can really receive help. They've gotta really want it."