AJ McLean Opens Up About Daily Communication with Estranged Wife Rochelle McLean
AJ McLean discusses his ongoing communication with estranged wife Rochelle McLean, sharing an update on their relationship following their separation announcement in March
Rochelle McLean and AJ McLean. Valerie Macon/Getty Images
AJ McLean and his estranged wife, Rochelle McLean, are actively working on their relationship despite their separation earlier this year. Although they are currently living separately, they are committed to couples therapy and individual therapy. They make a point to communicate with each other every day and are gradually spending more quality time together. AJ, 45, shared these details about his relationship with Rochelle, 42, during a recent episode of Cheryl Burke's podcast titled "Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans." He also acknowledged the need to rebuild something that was missing from their relationship since the very beginning.
Both AJ and Rochelle, who got married in 2011, faced their own challenges when they first started their relationship. While AJ did not mention the specific struggles that Rochelle had, he admitted that his battle with substance abuse had a significant impact on him. (The singer recently celebrated being two years sober.)
"We both came into the relationship with our own issues. She had experienced trauma, and I was not sober or ready to become sober. It created a constant back-and-forth dynamic. We would avoid dealing with our emotions, either by pushing them aside or by turning to alcohol. Now, this time apart has allowed us to truly grow, understand each other, and listen."
Amid Rochelle's healing journey, AJ revealed that he has made significant progress in communicating with their daughters, Elliot (10) and Lyric (6). AJ attributes the strength of their family bond to the acronym "luver," which represents the values of listening, understanding, vulnerability, empathy, and reiterating.
Elliot McLean, AJ McLean, Lyric McLean, Rochelle DeAnna McLean, and Denise McLean, pictured in September 2023. Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Rookie USA.
"I used to always make conversations about me, but now I've changed. When someone shares their feelings with me, I validate and listen to them. I have empathy and no longer make it about myself. Luver is a wonderful tool for communication, not just with your partner, but with anyone. It's important to have empathy, listen to others, and validate their feelings because those feelings belong to them."
AJ and Rochelle made an announcement in March 2023 that they have chosen to temporarily separate in order to focus on themselves and their marriage, with the intention of creating a stronger future. In a shared statement, the couple expressed that marriage can be challenging but worthwhile, and they plan to reunite and continue nurturing their love for each other and their family. They kindly requested respect and privacy during this difficult time, emphasizing the involvement of their children.
