Michael Tait, frontman of the Christian band Newsboys, has publicly admitted to years of substance abuse and inappropriate behavior in a personal statement released this week.
Tait, 58, acknowledged that “recent reports of reckless and destructive behavior, including drug and alcohol abuse and sexual activity, are sadly, largely true.” He detailed a nearly 20-year struggle with cocaine use, excessive alcohol consumption, and instances of touching men in what he described as an “unwanted sensual way.”
“I am ashamed of my life choices and actions, and make no excuses for them,” Tait said. “I will simply call it what God calls it sin. I don’t blame anyone or anything but myself.” While he noted that he may dispute certain details in the allegations, he said he does not dispute their overall substance.
Tait explained that his departure from Newsboys in January was due to personal health concerns. “I was not healthy, physically or spiritually, and was tired of leading a double life,” he said. Tait revealed that he entered a treatment facility in Utah shortly after leaving the band, where he spent six weeks receiving care. He reports being clean and sober since that time.
In his statement, Tait confessed to years of deceiving those closest to him, including his family, friends, fans, and even his bandmates. He described living “two distinctly different lives,” saying, “I was not the same person on stage Sunday night that I was at home on Monday.”
Despite the public fallout, Tait expressed hope for forgiveness and healing, both for himself and those he hurt. “I am truly sorry,” he said. “I accept the consequences of my sin and am committed to continuing the hard work of repentance and healing work I will do quietly and privately, away from the stage and the spotlight.”
