Backstreet Boys singer Nick Carter paid tribute to his ‘little brother’ Aaron after he was found dead.
The 42-year-old singer tweeted that he was “heartbroken” and uploaded several photos of the pair when they were younger.
“Despite my complicated relationship with my brother, my love for him has never faded,” he posted on Sunday.
“I’ve always held out hope that he will one day be on a healthy path and finally find the help he desperately needs.”
“Addiction and mental illness are the real villains here,” he added, underlining the post: “I love you little brother.”
Carter, 34 found dead He was reportedly taking a shower at his Los Angeles home on Saturday.
Nick (left) and Aaron Carter in New York in 2000.Image: Associated Press
Local authorities said he was found by a nanny around 11am that day, but attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.
The singer, rapper and actor is best known for his songs Aaron’s Party (Come Get It), I Want Candy, and his appearances on the TV shows Lizzie McGuire and Dancing with the Stars.
In 2012, the Carter brothers’ sister Leslie fell to her death after a shower, and authorities ruled she died of a prescription drug overdose.
Carter got tattoos on his face in his later years.Image: Associated Press
In 2017, he attended rehab after being arrested on DUI and marijuana charges.
He revealed on the 2019 talk show “The Doctor” that he was taking medication for multiple personality disorder, manic depression and acute anxiety disorder.
That same year, Nick Carter and his other sister, Angel, filed a restraining order against him, accusing him of threatening to kill Carter’s pregnant wife and unborn child.
Aaron Carter at the 2010 Grammy Awards
Participate in rehabilitation training again this year
Earlier this year, he entered rehab again in hopes of regaining custody of the prince, the son he shares with fiancé Melanie Martin.
Tributes flooded social media following news of his passing.
Actress and singer Hilary Duff, who played Lizzie McGuire, paid tribute on Instagram, writing: “To Aaron – I’m so sorry, life was so hard for you, you had to travel the world struggle in front.
Hilary Duff and Aaron Carter in 2003
“You have an absolutely heady charm… Boy, my teenage self is deeply in love with you. Sending love to your family at this time. Take it easy.”
American boy band New Kids On The Block shared a black and white photo of Carter, tweeting: “We are shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Aaron Carter.
“Prayers to the Carter family. Rest in peace, Aaron.”
Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans Help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org in the UK. In the U.S., call the Samaritans branch in your area or dial 1 (800) 273-TALK