Despite their intense rivalry on the music charts during the 1990s and early 2000s, the camaraderie between the Backstreet Boys and New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) has flourished over the years. This was beautifully demonstrated on Saturday, June 28, when Backstreet Boys members Howie Dorough and AJ McLean made a surprise appearance at NKOTB’s Las Vegas residency concert at Dolby Live at Park MGM. This visit occurred during the fifth night of NKOTB’s current Right Stuff residency, showcasing the strong bond that transcends their past competition in the music industry.
During a memorable segment of the show dubbed the “vows” portion, NKOTB’s Donnie Wahlberg stirred excitement by asking the audience, “How many of you thought that one day you might date a New Kid?… how many of you thought you might marry a New Kid?” The audience erupted in enthusiastic screams, highlighting the deep connection fans feel towards the band. The camera then focused on Dorough, who was in attendance holding a charming homemade sign that read “I Do,” symbolizing his playful participation in the evening’s festivities.
Wahlberg humorously remarked, “Apparently, Howie Dorough thought he would marry a New Kid… we’re gonna fight over you, Howie,” playfully acknowledging their shared history. “You were always my favorite Backstreet Boy,” he added, further strengthening the bond between the groups. Dorough embraced the moment, later commenting on an Instagram video of the encounter, expressing his gratitude with, “Thanks for an amazing night, fellas! Still holding on to the dream I might marry one of you.” This interaction illustrates the lighthearted spirit and enduring friendship between the two iconic boy bands.
Following the warm exchange, Dorough and McLean jumped on stage, receiving enthusiastic hugs from their NKOTB counterparts. Wahlberg complimented McLean, saying, “Damn, you smell good,” while fellow NKOTB member Joey McIntyre lightened the mood by joking, “Speaking of smell, I know Howie has the worst farts in the Backstreet Boys,” as he embraced Dorough. The camaraderie was palpable, with Wahlberg expressing heartfelt sentiment, stating, “We love you guys so much,” before McLean seized the microphone and posed the question, “When are we going back on the road together again?” This question sparked excitement among fans, eager for more collaborative performances.
Once the cheers and applause subsided, Wahlberg proposed, “How about we finish Vegas, you smash the Sphere, and we team up and do it one more time?” This suggestion harkens back to their previous collaboration when the two groups, collectively known as NKOTBSB, embarked on a joint North American and world tour in 2011 and 2012, which was a significant event in pop music history. The idea of another collaboration reignited nostalgia and enthusiasm among fans, making it a topic of discussion in the music community.
The Right Stuff residency continues its run tonight, July 2, with additional performances scheduled for Thursday, July 3, and Saturday, July 5. Following this, NKOTB will return for another series of shows in November and February. Meanwhile, the Backstreet Boys are preparing to kick off their own Into the Millennium residency at Las Vegas’ Sphere on July 11, marking another exciting chapter in their illustrious careers.
Don’t miss out on the heartwarming reunion captured in the video below.
