Backstreet BoysLou Pearlman, the man who launched the careers of hugely successful '90s boy bands Backstreet Boys and NSYNC, has died in prison while serving out a 25-year sentence for defrauding investors.
According to Billboard, multiple sources have confirmed Pearlman's death, but a cause is yet to be announced. He was 62 years old.
After managing the two juggernaut groups throughout the '90s, who are both noted as two of the best selling boy bands of all time, Pearlman was convicted of running a half-billion dollar Ponzi scheme in 2008, which included defrauding friends and family, for nearly two decades.
Though he was initially sent to a low-security prison in Texarkana, Texas, it has since been reported that he was moved to a federal prison in Miami as recently as June.
Members from both Backstreet Boys and NSYNC have addressed the news of Pearlman's death on social media in recent hours.
I hope he found some peace. God bless and RIP, Lou Pearlman.
— Justin Timberlake (@jtimberlake) August 21, 2016
Word is that #LouPearlman has passed away. He might not have been a stand up businessman , but I (cont) https://t.co/nsczUEVOOQ
— Lance Bass (@LanceBass) August 20, 2016
Mixed emotions right now, but RIP Lou Pearlman.
— Chris Kirkpatrick (@IamCKirkpatrick) August 21, 2016
Many emotions at the news of Lou's passing. Without Lou I wouldn't have met my four brothers or had the opportunity of a lifetime. RIP.
— AJ McLean (@skulleeroz) August 21, 2016
Saddens me to hear the news of Lou's death. Condolences go out to his family. Will always be grateful for the opportunity he gave to us.
— Howie D (@howied) August 21, 2016
