Nick Carter rape allegation: Brian Littrell has Backstreet Boys bandmate's back, terms accuser "fame seeker”

In the era of the MeToo movement, many famous and powerful men have been singled out even by their assumed allies and have become pariahs in the showbiz industry. Nick Carter, definitely is not one of them. It looks like the 38-year-old Backstreet Boys band member, who has been accused of rape and sexual harassment, has the backing of his bandmates, at least one of them.  

TMZ recently caught up with Brian Littrell at LAX Tuesday and asked him about his take on the accusations against Nick on Tuesday, August 7. He replied, “Unfortunately, there are fame seekers that are out there,” he said, adding, “In this situation, he’s been forthright and honest with us, and we have to stand beside our bandmate. That’s all we can do.” 

“We will have to assess that bridge when we get there,” continued Brian, when asked about how the allegations will potentially impact the group if it goes to trial. “I honestly don’t feel like it will be there.” The band, meanwhile, is promoting their new single 'Don't Go Breaking My Heart,' which was released in May.  

Nick was accused of rape by ‘Dream' singer Melissa Schuman in February and the investigation for the case is ongoing. The alleged incident took place in Carter's apartment, when she was 18 and he was 22, in 2002. She filed a police report 7 months ago.  

The Santa Monica Police Department presented the sex assault case involving Nick Carter to the D.A.'s office on July 31, and according to CBS News, the prosecutors are reviewing the case. 

In a blog that Melissa posted in November, she has accused Nick of forcefully giving her oral sex in a bathroom before coercing her into reciprocating. She also said that she repeated told him she did not want to have sex, however, he pinned her down in a bedroom and raped her. Melissa said she felt trapped because Nick was bigger than her. 

However, Nick has always maintained that the sexual encounter between the two of them was consensual, having said in a statement,"I am shocked and saddened by Ms. Schuman's accusations. Melissa never expressed to me while we were together or at any time since that anything we did was not consensual.” 

“We went on to record a song and perform together, and I was always respectful and supportive of Melissa both personally and professionally." He also said, "This is the first that I am hearing about these accusations, nearly two decades later. ... It is contrary to my nature and everything I hold dear to intentionally cause someone discomfort or harm."