Melissa Schuman, former singer of the girl group Dream, has opened up about the difficult decision to record a duet with Nick Carter months after an alleged assault. Her revelations are part of the new Investigation Discovery docuseries, “Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter”.
Schuman recounts the distressing experience of recording the song “There for Me” with Carter in 2003, following the alleged assault. She explains that despite her reservations, she felt pressured by her burgeoning solo career and the encouragement of her management. Schuman’s manager, Kenneth Crear, who also worked with Carter, presented the duet as a beneficial opportunity, creating a sense of obligation.
Reflecting on the situation, Schuman describes feeling betrayed by the offer. She now believes that the duet served more as an “alibi” for Carter than as a genuine chance to advance her career. “When I look back on this song now, it feels almost premeditated, where it was presented as if it was going to actually help me, but in reality, it feels more like an alibi for him,” Schuman said.
Schuman elaborates on her efforts to navigate forgiveness and maintain her career amidst personal turmoil. She addressed potential criticisms regarding her interactions with Carter, such as following him on Twitter and sending condolences, by explaining her attempts to move on and find closure. “People don’t understand and are like, ‘Well, you followed him on Twitter. You sent him condolences. You liked a tweet.’ I was truly trying my best to find forgiveness for him and move on with my life,” she stated.
Schuman faced ongoing trauma during a Sony Records showcase where she was confronted by Carter. This encounter elicited significant fear and discomfort, underscoring the lasting impact of the alleged assault. Schuman vividly recalls freezing in fear upon seeing Carter, stating, “I remember seeing him and I froze. Completely froze. I was scared.”
The experience highlighted her dissatisfaction with the industry’s reaction to her talent and the challenges she faced in her professional journey.
“Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter”
The docuseries “Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter” provides a platform for Schuman and others to share their stories, shedding light on the complexities and challenges celebrities face behind the scenes. Through intimate interviews and personal accounts, the series explores themes of fame, trauma, and the pursuit of justice, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the often hidden struggles of those in the public eye.
