Newsboys Release Statement Addressing Sexual Assault Allegations Against Michael Tait: ‘We are Devastated’
The Newsboys have released a statement regarding public allegations of sexual assault, drug use, and grooming by frontman Michael Tait, saying that they are ‘devastated’ by the revelation and that while Tait confessed to them that he “had been living a double” life, they “never imagined it could be this bad.”
Last night our hearts were shattered when we read the news alleging drug abuse and inappropriate sexual actions by our former lead singer, Michael Tait. While Michael has not addressed these allegations, we are devastated even by the implications.
First and foremost, our hearts are with the victims who have bravely shared their stories. If you are a victim, we urge you to come forward. We absolutely do not condone any form of sexual assault.
The four of us are husbands and fathers. Between the four of us, we have fourteen children. Our wives and children have made many sacrifices while we have dedicated our lives to playing music together that glorifies God. We are horrified, heartbroken, and angry at this report and in many ways, we feel as if we and our families have been deceived for the last fifteen years.
When he left the band in January, Michael confessed to us and our management that he “had been living a double-life” but we never imagined that it could be this bad.
Jeff, Jody, Duncan, and Adam
Despite their protestations of ignorance, it is nearly impossible to believe that The Newsboys bandmates had no knowledge of any of his actions or that there were no major red flags that they could have acted upon. Tait’s reputation has been an open secret in the Christian music community for years, with many Christian bands refusing to tour with them for this very reason.
Notably, Newsboys manager Wes Campbell HAS known about these allegations for years, and has been accused of covering it up from the public eye.
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“with many Christian bands refusing to tour with them for this very reason.”
What bands have refused to tour with them? While I’ve long thought Tait was likely closeted, I’ve not heard of any groups refusing to tour with the Newsboys.
This is the first I’ve heard of that as well
So very sad. Who of us wretched sinners saved and kept only by God’s grace can condemn Michael Tait for even such serious sin ? However, we need to pray that he indeed repents, and maybe even that God would save him in the first place.
*IF* the allegations are even true. They have NOT been proven yet. Anyone can make such claims, but that doesn’t mean they’re true. That’s one of the biggest problems with modern society: guilty until proven innocent. Many prominent figures have had their reputations completely ruined by allegations that were later proven false. Let’s give the evidence some time to come out before assuming guilt.
I’m pretty sure when the gospel writer said any sin can be forgiven except blasphemy against the Holy Ghost it was an oversight because he was so innocent he didn’t realize that homosexuality or child molestation existed. The idea that child rapists or gay gropists should be forgiven or allowed to even return to church is an offence against the gospel.
amen brother
First off as a Reformed Baptist and a Die-Hard Newsboys Fan and Michael Tait being my favorite Lead Singer of Newsboys. I have to take this news with a heavy grain of salt because if the band mates would have known if it was truly going on. Plus when Michael left the Band in January their was no mention of Michael living a double life. Besides we don’t even know if these “Victims” are telling the truth or trying to bring a Man of God down with false accusations that the rest of the Newsboys have tooken, Hook, Line and Sinker. Plus in past interviews Michael Tait has talked about he longs to have a Wife and Kids but that will Be on God’s Appointed Time.
They look gay in those pajama outfits.
I’ve never heard of these freaks before. A benefit of not being part of a heretical rock concert cult.
amen brother
This one one of many many problems with CCM……