Who Is Backstreet Boys Member AJ McLean's Estranged Wife Rochelle? Net Worth, Age And Reason Behind Their Divorce

AJ McLean, founding member of the Backstreet Boys, and his estranged wife Rochelle DeAnna McLean officially finalized their divorce in early 2024 after more than a year of separation. The former couple recently appeared together at the grand opening of Sphere in Las Vegas, where AJ performed as part of a new concert residency. Their divorce closes a chapter on a 12-year marriage marked by mutual support through personal struggles and professional ventures.

The end of their 12-year marriage marks the close of a long-standing partnership shaped by mutual support through personal struggles, professional ventures and family milestones. Despite their separation, AJ and Rochelle have demonstrated ongoing friendship and shared commitment to family life.

Background and Career

Born Rochelle DeAnna Karidis, she met McLean in 2008 while working as a waitress in Los Angeles. She later retrained as a professional makeup artist and hairstylist, attending two trade schools before establishing her career in the beauty industry. Her work has included private clients, editorial shoots, and social media content. She maintains an active presence on Instagram, where she showcases both her professional work and personal insights into family life.

The couple began dating in 2009 and became engaged during McLean's birthday celebrations in Las Vegas the following year. They married on 17 December 2011 in a gothic-themed ceremony at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Rochelle also supported McLean in launching a cruelty-free vegan nail polish line named Ava Dean, featuring shades named after family members.

Family, Finances and Public Life

The McLeans have two daughters, Elliott, born in 2012, and Lyric, born in 2017. AJ McLean has frequently credited Rochelle with providing vital support during his struggles with addiction, particularly during his recovery process in the early 2010s.

While Rochelle's individual net worth remains unconfirmed, she is believed to have built a six-figure income through her beauty work and brand collaborations. McLean's personal net worth is estimated at approximately US$30 million (£23 million). The couple jointly owned a property in the Los Angeles area, which was discreetly listed for sale in late 2023.

Separation and Divorce

In March 2023, the couple announced a trial separation, stating their intent to prioritise personal growth while preserving the family unit, according to TMZ. Reports later suggested the decision to separate was initiated by Rochelle, reportedly due to unresolved trust issues. On 1 January 2024, the pair confirmed their divorce had been finalised, describing the decision as made 'with deep love and respect'.

Despite their divorce, the McLeans have maintained amicable ties. Their recent joint appearance at the Sphere launch attracted media attention, highlighting their efforts to remain united publicly even as they pursue separate lives privately.

Both have stated their continued commitment to co-parenting and maintaining a positive relationship. In a recent interview with People, AJ McLean described the process of his sobriety journey as 'still learning, still growing'. Rochelle, speaking separately, emphasised her current focus on 'healing and raising two strong girls'.

Looking Ahead

Rochelle McLean's journey, from hospitality work to establishing herself as a beauty professional and parent has unfolded alongside AJ's career in music and recovery. Although their marriage has come to an end, both have expressed mutual respect and shared hopes for the future.

Rochelle has recently hinted at plans to launch her own line of cruelty-free beauty products, while AJ continues touring with the Backstreet Boys and supporting addiction recovery initiatives.