98 Degrees Members on Whether Their Kids Think They Are Cool

Justin Jeffre and the rest of 98 Degrees have been active since 1997. This boy band, known for its American pop and R&B hits, was started by Jeff Timmons along with band members Nick Lachey, Justin Jeffre, and Drew Lachey. Over the years, the group has achieved massive success, selling over 10 million records worldwide and earning eight Top 40 singles in the U.S. Despite their impressive history, their lives have evolved. Now, they’re not just pop stars but also dads trying to earn “cool points” from their kids.

While speaking to a magazine at the 22nd Annual Asian American Awards, the band members opened up about their lives as fathers. Though these ’90s pop icons have millions of fans, they revealed that their kids aren’t as easily impressed by their accomplishments.

Jeff Timmons, who is a dad to daughter Alyssa and son Jeffrey Jr., admitted, “Unfortunately, not.” He added, “No matter what we show them, we’re still not as cool as Justin Bieber or some of the K-pop groups.” The singer explained that their kids have grown up and aren’t as easily wowed by their parents’ fame. “Nonetheless, we’re still giving it the old college try to impress our kids,” he joked during the event at the Beverly Hilton.

Nick Lachey, father to sons Camden (12) and Phoenix (8), and daughter Brooklyn (9), shared a more positive outlook. “It’s cool to be able to share what we love to do—and have loved to do for 25 years—with our kids,” he said. “For them to be able to come and see us in concert, that’s an added perk for sure.”

The conversation took a lighthearted turn as Jeff chimed in, confidently adding, “I think the kids know we’re cool.”

Drew Lachey, father to son Hudson Nicholas (15) and daughter Isabella Claire (19), spoke about how his daughter Isabella is following in his footsteps. “My daughter is a big theater buff, so she wants to continue performing,” he said. However, he noted that his son, Hudson, has a different path. “My son, not so much. He just wants to play sports and do all that, but my daughter wants to perform.”

As they reflected on their journeys as fathers, each member shared heartfelt and humorous stories during their interview at the Annual Asian American Awards.