Chris Kirkpatrick, born on October 17, 1971, in Clarion, Pennsylvania, is a versatile entertainer known for his work as a member of the iconic boy band NSYNC. With a net worth of approximately $10 million, Kirkpatrick’s career has spanned across music, reality television, and voice acting. His journey from humble beginnings to international stardom is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and adaptability.
Raised in Clarion before moving to Dalton, Ohio, Kirkpatrick attended Dalton High School, where his passion for music began to flourish. He pursued this passion further at Rollins College in Orlando, Florida, where he studied while performing as a singer with The Hollywood Hi-Tones, a Doo Wop group. During this time, he supported himself by working as a busboy at Outback Steakhouse, showcasing his dedication to pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.
Formation of NSYNC
Kirkpatrick’s big break came in 1995 when he met Lou Pearlman, a well-known music producer credited with creating the Backstreet Boys. Seizing the opportunity, Kirkpatrick proposed forming a new boy band. Pearlman agreed to finance the project if Kirkpatrick could recruit other talented singers. Kirkpatrick then reached out to Justin Timberlake, whom Pearlman knew from The Mickey Mouse Club. Timberlake brought along his friend JC Chasez, and the group was completed with Lance Bass and Joey Fatone, a former colleague of Kirkpatrick’s from Universal Studios.
NSYNC quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the best-selling boy bands of all time, with over 50 million records sold worldwide. Their second album, No Strings Attached, made history by selling 2.4 million copies in its first week alone. Kirkpatrick was particularly noted for his countertenor voice, which added a unique dimension to the group’s harmonies and sound.
Post-NSYNC Ventures
After NSYNC disbanded in 2002, Kirkpatrick explored various avenues in the entertainment industry. He resurfaced in 2007 on the VH1 reality show Mission Man Band, which featured former boy band members attempting to rekindle their careers. Alongside Kirkpatrick were Bryan Abrams of Color Me Badd, Jeff Timmons of 98 Degrees, and Rich Cronin of LFO. Together, they formed the supergroup Sureshot, recorded new music, and performed publicly.
In 2008, Kirkpatrick appeared on the CMT reality show Gone Country, which focused on celebrities aspiring to become country music singers. While he did not win, his performance of the original song “That’ll Get Ya By” was praised by the show’s judge, John Rich, highlighting Kirkpatrick’s versatility as a performer.
Voice Acting and Other Pursuits
Beyond music and reality television, Kirkpatrick has found success in voice acting, most notably voicing the character Chip Skylark in the popular Nickelodeon series The Fairly OddParents. He also ventured into fashion with his clothing line, Fu-Man Skeeto, which was inspired by urban skater fashion. Although the line was short-lived, it demonstrated Kirkpatrick’s willingness to explore different facets of the entertainment industry.
Kirkpatrick has made various cameo appearances in films and music videos, including roles in Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No!, Dead 7, and the music video for Good Charlotte’s “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.” These appearances showcase his broad appeal and willingness to embrace diverse projects.
Personal Life and Legacy
In his personal life, Chris Kirkpatrick married his long-time girlfriend, Karly Skladany, on November 2, 2013. The couple wed in a ceremony attended by family and friends in Orlando, Florida, and welcomed their son, Nash, in 2017, marking a new and joyous chapter in Kirkpatrick’s life as a father.
Kirkpatrick’s journey from a small-town performer to a member of one of the world’s most famous boy bands illustrates a story of talent, determination, and adaptability. His contributions to NSYNC have left an indelible mark on the music industry, while his post-band endeavors in reality TV, voice acting, and fashion highlight his versatility as an entertainer.
Continuing Influence
Despite the disbanding of NSYNC, Kirkpatrick’s work continues to resonate with fans across generations, proving that his influence extends far beyond the peak years of boy band popularity. His ability to reinvent himself and explore new creative outlets has ensured his lasting relevance in the entertainment world.
Chris Kirkpatrick remains a beloved figure, known not only for his musical talents but also for his contributions to pop culture. As he continues to explore new opportunities, his legacy as a member of NSYNC and a versatile performer endures, exemplifying the enduring appeal of genuine talent and the power of reinvention in the entertainment industry.