Dancing with the stars: Backstreet Boys’ AJ McLean ‘joins’

AJ McLean of the Backstreet Boys is expected to join Dancing With The Stars after making a big announcement on his Instagram.

McLean, 42, took to his social media on Monday to show off his newly toned physique, and Entertainment Tonight claims he is set to appear on season 29 of the hit ABC show, which will be released on next month.

“ A lot of surprises come from me, ” McLean teased to his Instagram followers. “I can’t tell you exactly what yet, but I’m doing it for two reasons: first, to be in the best shape of my life, to be healthy, and to be happy, physically, mentally and emotionally.

Stop playing games! Backstreet Boys’ AJ McLean teased big announcement, and ET reports he’s set to join Dancing With The Stars

He added cryptically: ‘… and there is something else to come. I can’t tell you what it is, but trust me, you will know why based on this.

McLean also revealed how he was on a diet, saying, “ I am on a very strict diet, free of grains, gluten, sugar, soda of any kind, and ‘completely sober for almost nine months. ‘

“This incredible, but rigorous training is due to my great trainer, Mr. Bobby Strong. He has been a huge asset in my transformation, trying to prepare myself and prepare for what is to come in the next few weeks.

DailyMail.com has reached out to ABC for comment on the news. The full celebrity list would be revealed on September 2 on Good Morning America.

Larger than life: AJ reveals his improved physique was due to a strict training regimen

Back Coming Soon: Dancing With the Stars, which releases Monday, September 14 at 8 p.m. ET / PT on ABC

I want it like this: AJ has made sure he’s been in great shape lately

Bachelorette’s Kaitlyn Bristowe is one of the only confirmed contestants to date, who recently documented her DWTS journey on Instagram.

Chris Harrison surprised Kaitlyn with the news during her episode of The Bachelor: The Greatest Seasons – Ever! in June.

The reality TV star then posted a photo of herself showing off her abs, revealing that she had already started training: “ My body at 35 feels strong and ready to dance. ”

Rumor: Stars like Charlie Sheen and Christie Brinkley are in the pipeline this year

Last December, Rob Mills, senior vice president of alternative series at ABC Entertainment, said they were also trying to get Charlie Sheen on board again.

He also revealed that they were chasing Christie Brinkley, having signed for Season 28, but had to step down after breaking her wrist days before the premiere and was replaced by daughter Sailor Brinkley-Cook. .

Former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier is also said to be a hot contender, having been nearly paralyzed in 2017, but has since learned to walk again after spine surgery.

The show’s last two seasons have seen big celebrity draws – especially in terms of controversy – with contestants including former White House press secretary Sean Spicer, Khloe Kardashian’s ex Lamar Odom and Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek.

Despite all the speculation about the show, a specific air date has yet to be given, although rehearsals are slated to begin next month.

So far: Bachelorette star Katilyn Bristowe also revealed her DWTS fitness journey on Instagram