Lance Bass Reveals NSYNC Members Earned Just $35 a Day During Peak Fame

In the late 1990s, NSYNC was one of the most successful boy bands in the United States, churning out massive nostalgic hits like It's Gonna Be Me and Bye Bye Bye. Despite massive sales and legions of screaming fans, former band member Lance Bass revealed that they made shockingly little money during their peak years.

Speaking on an episode of The Zach Sang Show, the 47-year-old singer shared that for two or three years, he and his bandmates received just $35 a day. According to Bass, Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Joey Fatone, and Chris Kirkpatrick all earned the same meager daily allowance, and their very first major paycheck only arrived after years of topping charts and selling out arenas.

The Reality Behind the Fame

Bass opened up about the financial disparity, noting that their first big check was for $10,000. While the millions rolled in from merchandise and ticket sales, the members were left with virtually nothing while the record label and their infamous manager, Lou Pearlman, pocketed the profits.

Our first check was for $10,000. And you're like, 'Oh, thank you.' We're supposed to be grateful for that, after working for free for two or three years.

Reflecting on the mistreatment, Bass admitted he harbored deep resentment toward the adults in the room who constantly dismissed their concerns by citing their youth. Pearlman was later convicted of massive financial fraud and conspiracy, ultimately dying in federal prison in 2016.

Looking Back and Moving Forward

NSYNC officially went on an indefinite hiatus in 2002. Although the quintet reunited briefly for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a new track for the Trolls franchise in 2023, fans hoping for a full-scale reunion tour will likely be disappointed, as members have confirmed no such plans are in the works.