Former O-Town singer Ashley Parker Angel has revealed harrowing details about his mental health struggles during his time in the music industry, including a moment when he considered taking his own life.
In the trailer for an upcoming documentary titled Boy Band Confidential: A Hollywood Demons Event, released on Tuesday, March 24, the 44-year-old artist disclosed a deeply personal moment from his past.
"I was sitting on the 38th floor balcony of my New York apartment, and I just thought about jumping off," Angel stated in the documentary trailer. He indicated this marks the first time he has discussed these experiences publicly, adding that he was "talking openly" about his struggles during his boy band years for the first time.
The two-part documentary, executive produced by NSYNC member Joey Fatone, will premiere on ID and HBO Max on April 13, with the second installment airing the following day. The project features multiple prominent figures from the boy band era, including Lance Bass, Nick Lachey, Wanya Morris, Shawn Stockman, and Brad Fischetti, as they reflect on their experiences in the music industry.
Rise to Fame and Subsequent Struggles
Angel became a founding member of O-Town during the inaugural season of Making the Band, which aired in 2000. The group released two albums before disbanding in 2003. While O-Town reunited in 2013, Angel declined to participate, instead pursuing a career in musical theater.
He subsequently starred as Fiyero in a touring production of Wicked and later performed in the Broadway production from 2017 to 2018. In 2023, he competed on season 10 of The Masked Singer.
During an August 2022 podcast appearance, Angel reflected on a pivotal moment of self-awareness. "I looked at myself in the mirror, and I was like, 'If I don't make a change, I'm gonna join the 27 Club. I'm going to die as this young performer, like many have,'" he recalled.
Career Transition and Mental Health Advocacy
Angel has since transitioned away from the entertainment industry, now working as a fitness trainer. In an October 2025 Instagram post, he elaborated on the factors that led to his career change.
"After 20 years of performing I realized chasing entertainment wins left me feeling anxious and depressed," he wrote. "I'm grateful for the successes — sold 10 million records, two hit television shows, movie roles, and starred in the biggest shows on Broadway with over 2000 performances."
He continued, explaining that the lifestyle demands proved detrimental. "I realized during that time the LIFESTYLE of being away from your family, on the road, on location, and the constant pressure of creating the next BIG HIT on my resume was becoming disastrous for my physical, mental and emotional health."
Angel described how "the constant need to maintain status or success" left him "feeling empty inside." He noted the prevalence of substance abuse and unhealthy coping mechanisms among performers facing similar pressures, referencing friends who died young as a result.
With support from loved ones and mental health professionals, Angel reported that he was able to "take back control" of his life. His forthcoming documentary appearance represents a significant step in sharing his journey with a broader audience.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
Boy Band Confidential: A Hollywood Demons Event premieres on ID on Monday, April 13, at 9 p.m. ET.