Photo Credit:Getty Images
Flavor Flav’s holiday cheer took a hit during NBC's Christmas in Rockefeller Center on Dec. 4 in New York City, where he claimed he was asked to leave the Backstreet Boys' dressing room despite being invited inside.
The 65-year-old rapper shared the incident on social media in a now-deleted post, saying, "I feel weird. I was invited to the Rockefeller Tree Lighting tonight and escorted to see my boys." He continued, "We were backstage in their dressing room when security came and told me NBC didn’t want me in the area, and I needed to leave. At the same time, their social media rep asked to capture content of me."
Flav expressed confusion and disappointment, writing, "What did I ever do to NBC or anyone? All I ever try to do is spread joy and love. I think I did that for NBC at the Olympics." Hours later, he updated fans, saying he had deleted the post, adding, "My spirit is broken."
The rapper later released a statement addressing the situation, noting the encounter was "poorly handled" by security and that he "didn’t realize how many people would care." He added, "This season is about spreading love and joy, and I thank everyone for the support."
Despite the incident, Flav praised the event and the performers, singling out Jennifer Hudson’s performance as a highlight. He also applauded the Backstreet Boys, calling Howie Dorough “one of the nicest guys in the music industry.” Flav watched their performance from the side stage as snow began to fall, quipping, “If you don’t catch us on the front street, catch us on the Backstreet!”
The annual tree lighting special, hosted by Kelly Clarkson, aired live on NBC and featured appearances by Today’s Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, Al Roker, and Craig Melvin. While the Backstreet Boys have not commented publicly, Flav confirmed that the group "spoke up" for him during the incident.
Flavor Flav has been making headlines this year for his philanthropy. During the Paris Summer Olympics, he sponsored the U.S. women’s water polo team and even paid off discus thrower Veronica Fraley’s rent. He also gifted the women’s water polo team a cruise and surprised gymnast Jordan Chiles with a custom “bronze medal clock” to honor her Olympic achievements.
Though the dressing room incident left him disheartened, Flavor Flav remains committed to his mission of spreading joy and positivity.
