Aaron Carter and Olive Chiacchia.Photo: Olive Chiacchia/instagram
Aaron Carterwas planning to get back into acting before hisunexpected death at age 34on Saturday.
Last month, the pop star and rapper filmed the pilot episode ofGroup, an independent sitcom about mental health recovery. Since Carter’s death, writer and director has received his management’s permission to move forward with the pilot episode, which will be shopped around to networks once it’s finished and dedicated to the “I Want Candy” performer.
In astatement given to Deadlineon Tuesday, Farmer said he “was heartbroken to hear the shocking news about Aaron” and detailed his experience working with Carter.
“Aaron was so excited about the show and helping raise awareness for mental health, a topic he was very passionate about,” he wrote. “He said being a part of the show gave him something positive to work toward, and I’ll forever cherish that.”
Cast of ‘Group’.Olive Chiacchia/instagram
InGroup, Carter reportedly plays a fictionalized version of himself and was reportedly looking forward to opening up about his real-life struggles through the show.
Other actors set to appear in the series include Samm Levine, Olive Chiacchia, Ari Stidham, Ashley Brinkman, Kevin Clayette, Abdoulaye NGom, Anne Judson-Yager and Mike Starr.
Earlier this week, Chiacchia shared a series of photos from the set ofGroupto Instagram alongside a caption abouther time working alongside Carter.
Oliva Chiacchia and Aaron Carter.Olive Chiacchia/instagram
“Aaron, this isn’t how or why I wanted to post these photos. I was waiting until the release of the pilot. I had the pleasure of playing your love interest in Group, and you were truly the most loving, professional, kind and talented performer I’ve worked with,” began the actress' note.
Chiacchia continued, “I wish the world saw you the way I do, and saw your side of the story. Everyone knew your struggles, so I share this story in hopes that you will be remembered for your heart and your light. My heart goes out to your family, loved ones, Melanie, and your son.”
His early hits included “Aaron’s Party (Come Get It),” “That’s How I Beat Shaq” and his cover of The Strangeloves' “I Want Candy.” Aaron opened on tour for the Backstreet Boys andBritney Spearsbefore embarking on his first solo tour in 2000.
The young multi-hyphenate was also an actor, appearing as himself in such shows asLizzie McGuireandSabrina the Teenage Witch, as well as roles in7th Heavenand the moviesFat Albert(2004),Popstar(2005) andSupercross(2005).
Carter was found dead at his house in Lancaster, California on Saturday morning, according to TMZ, who first reported the news. A spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department told PEOPLE a body was discovered just before 11 a.m., but police did not officially identify the victim.
He facedlegal troublesandstruggled with addictionthroughout his life, and was pulled over for suspicion of a DUI just days before his death. TMZ reported that officers found he wasnot under the influenceafter conducting a field sobriety test.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please contact the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.
source: people.com
