Aaron Carter's older brother, Nick Carter, has issued an emotional statement following the singer's sudden death this week.
Aaron, who was best known for his teen pop career, was found dead in his home this week aged 34.
The singer and TV personality was also the younger brother of Backstreet Boys singer Nick, who paid tribute to Aaron in a heartbreaking post to Instagram today (6 November).
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Sharing a collection of photos of the two brothers over the years to Instagram, Nick wrote: "My heart has been broken today.
"Even though my brother and I have had a complicated relationship, my love for him has never ever faded.
"I have always held onto the hope, that he would somehow, someday want to walk a healthy path and eventually find the help that he so desperately needed."
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He continued: "Sometimes we want to blame someone or something for a loss. But the truth is that addiction and mental illness is the real villain here.
"I will miss my brother more than anyone will ever know. I love you Chizz., now you get a chance to finally have some peace you could never find here on earth… God,Please take care of my baby brother."
On Saturday, 5 November, a representative for Aaron Carter confirmed the news of his death to PA, stating: "It is with great regret to confirm Aaron Carter was found unresponsive this AM in his home in Palmdale, CA.
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"The family has been notified and will be flying out to Los Angeles. Aaron worked very hard towards the end of his life in recovery, to be a good father and to make amends with his family.
"Unfortunately without proper recovery facilities available in our country and open borders, this is why we have an epidemic."
The former teen heartthrob first made waves at just nine years old when he released his first album, which sold a million copies worldwide.
His follow-up album Aaron's Party (Come Get It) went triple platinum, featuring hits like 'I Want Candy', 'That's How I Beat Shaq' and 'Bounce'.
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As a teen, the pop star went on to tour with the likes of Britney Spears and The Backstreet Boys, and made a famous appearance on Disney Channel's Lizzie McGuire.
After taking a break from his music career, Aaron appeared on Dancing with the Stars and made his Broadway debut in the musical Seussical.
Aaron's death has left fans and loved ones shocked and heartbroken, with many paying tribute to the star who had a significant impact on pre-teen and teenage culture in the early 21st century.
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If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
Topics: Celebrity
Ali Condon