Joey McIntyre, born on December 31, 1972, in Needham, Massachusetts, is an American singer, actor, and performer best known as a member of the legendary boy band New Kids on the Block (NKOTB). Although he first rose to fame as a teenager in the 1980s, McIntyre’s career has evolved far beyond the limits of boy band fame. From his solo music career to Broadway performances, acting roles, and continued global tours, McIntyre has established himself as one of the most versatile and enduring figures in entertainment.
Early Years and Entry into New Kids on the Block
Joey McIntyre’s journey to fame began at a young age. Born into a large family as the youngest of nine siblings, Joey’s early life was filled with both love and creativity. Growing up in Needham, a suburb of Boston, he was exposed to music and performance early on. His natural talent in singing and acting led him to audition for New Kids on the Block, a boy band formed by Maurice Starr.
At just 12 years old, Joey was selected as the youngest member of the group, quickly becoming known for his impressive vocal range and youthful charm. His fresh face and smooth voice made him an instant favorite among the group’s fans, and he became the heartthrob for many. Joey’s early involvement in the band catapulted him to stardom alongside his bandmates Donnie Wahlberg, Jordan Knight, Jonathan Knight, and Danny Wood.
Joey McIntyre New Kids on the Block: Global Fame
New Kids on the Block made waves in the late 1980s and early 1990s with their infectious pop tunes and energetic performances. Albums like Hangin’ Tough (1988) and Step by Step (1990) became cultural touchstones, and the band went on to sell over 80 million albums worldwide. Their success also sparked a teen idol movement, where boy bands like NKOTB set the stage for the pop boy bands of the 2000s.
Joey, as the youngest member, stood out with his youthful exuberance and ability to deliver high-energy performances. Hits like “Hangin’ Tough”, “Step by Step”, and “Please Don’t Go Girl” were sung by millions of fans, and NKOTB became a household name.
Joey McIntyre Solo Career: Breaking Free from Boy Band Fame
After New Kids on the Block disbanded in 1994, Joey McIntyre set out to prove that he was more than just a boy band member. He pursued a solo career with the release of his debut album, Stay the Same (1999). The album was a commercial success, and its title track became a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. McIntyre showed off his maturity as an artist, veering from his boy band past into a more adult contemporary sound.
Despite his solo success, Joey McIntyre never truly left his NKOTB roots behind. He continued to make music and occasionally release solo albums, but his heart was always with his bandmates. Over the years, McIntyre’s solo career has evolved, focusing on personal growth and creating music that reflects his experiences.
Joey McIntyre Acting Career: A New Stage for McIntyre
Joey McIntyre didn’t limit himself to just music. His acting career has been equally diverse, showcasing his talents across television, film, and stage.
He appeared in a variety of TV shows, including a recurring role in Boston Public, a popular drama about a high school set in Boston. His ability to transition from music to acting has earned him respect as a versatile performer.
On the big screen, Joey appeared in films like The Fantasticks (2000), Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding (2004), and more recently in New Year’s Eve (2011) and The Heat (2013). Though not as prolific in film as his boy band days, McIntyre proved that his charm could translate to the silver screen.
Broadway Success: A Natural Transition
One of McIntyre’s most exciting ventures post-boy band was his successful transition into Broadway. He joined the cast of the smash hit musical Wicked, playing the role of Fiyero. His voice and charisma made him a standout in the production, and his time on stage allowed him to showcase his range as a performer.
Later, McIntyre would take on roles in Waitress and other theater productions, proving that his artistic versatility extended far beyond pop music. His success on Broadway highlighted his ability to make a significant impact in multiple entertainment genres, earning him accolades from both audiences and critics alike.
Joey McIntyre Personal Life: Family, Marriage, and Parenthood
Outside of his professional endeavors, Joey McIntyre has maintained a relatively private personal life. He married Barrett Williams in 2003, and the couple has three children together. McIntyre often shares his love for his family in interviews, celebrating his role as a husband and father.
Joey’s ability to maintain balance between his personal life and career has made him a role model to many fans who admire not only his work ethic but his commitment to his family. He speaks often about the joys and challenges of parenthood, making sure to be present for his children despite his busy touring and performing schedule.
Recent Work: Touring and New Music
Joey McIntyre’s career is far from over. He continues to perform as part of New Kids on the Block, with the band regularly touring the world and performing for their loyal fans. NKOTB’s most recent tours have included new material alongside classic hits, showing that their magic is still alive after decades of performing together.
In addition to his group tours, McIntyre has continued to pursue solo projects, including his Freedom Tour (2025), which supports his latest album Freedom. This new album is a reflection of McIntyre’s personal and musical growth, and he’s been sharing new songs with his fans in intimate concert settings. His solo music continues to showcase his evolving style, appealing to both old fans and new listeners alike.
Joey McIntyre Today
As of 2025, Joey McIntyre remains active both in New Kids on the Block and as a solo artist. His influence in the music and entertainment industry continues to be significant. He frequently interacts with fans on social media and maintains a robust online presence that allows him to stay connected with his fanbase.
Whether it’s performing in Las Vegas, preparing for an upcoming NKOTB tour, or releasing new solo music, McIntyre’s passion for entertaining remains unwavering. Fans old and new continue to follow his career as he evolves as both an artist and a person.
Conclusion
From his beginnings as the youngest member of New Kids on the Block to his success as a solo artist, actor, and Broadway star, Joey McIntyre’s career is a testament to his hard work, versatility, and dedication to his craft. Throughout his journey, McIntyre has remained a beloved figure in pop culture, transcending his boy band roots and proving that he is far more than a teenage heartthrob.
As he continues to tour, release new music, and expand his acting career, Joey McIntyre’s legacy as an entertainer remains solidified — not only as a pop icon but also as a multi‑talented performer who will continue to influence future generations of artists.