The former frontman of the popular Christian rock band Newsboys has issued a public confession after being accused of substance abuse and unwanted sexual conduct with other men, going on to acknowledge his actions as sin and describe himself as a “horrible representative” of God.
For context, on June 4, 2025, press accounts confirmed that Michael Tait, formerly of Newsboys, had been accused of assault, grooming, and substance abuse, with allegations dating back as far as 2004. Tait’s former bandmates responded in solidarity with Tait’s alleged victims, saying they were “devastated” and calling attention to the fact that Tait had not yet addressed the allegations against him.
Furthermore, on June 11, 2025, Tait broke the silence, posting on social media for the first time since announcing his departure from Newsboys in January 2025. In a post labeled “My Confession,” Tait told fans, “Recent reports of my reckless and destructive behavior, including drug and alcohol abuse and sexual activity are sadly, largely true.”
Continuing, Tait admitted, “For some two decades I used and abused cocaine, consumed far too much alcohol, and, at times, touched men in an unwanted sensual way. I am ashamed of my life choices and actions, and make no excuses for them.” He added that he had lived a “double life,” saying, “I was not the same person on stage Sunday night that I was at home on Monday.”
Moreover, the singer, whose sudden departure from the band in January surprised the other members, admitted that he had deceived his bandmates, along with fans, family, and friends, saying, “I have hurt so many people in so many ways, and I will live with that shameful reality the rest of my life.” He added, “I can only dream and pray for human forgiveness, because I certainly don’t deserve it.”
In addition, Tait said that he was actively working on finding a path forward, explaining that he had sought support from counselors, friends, and loved ones. He wrote, “Even before this recent news became public, I had started on a path to health, healing, and wholeness. Tait then added, “Sin is a terrible thing, taking us where we don’t want to go; keeping us longer than we want to stay; and costing us more than we want to pay.”
Near the conclusion of his statement, Tait quoted Psalm 51, King David’s statement of repentance to God for committing adultery, and added that he was committed to living a new life centered on humility and accountability. “Create in me a new heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me,” he wrote.
Concluding his statement, Tait pleaded with his former fans to avoid misplacing their faith in flawed human leaders rather than in God himself. He wrote, “It crushes me to think that someone would lose or choose not to pursue faith and trust in Jesus because I have been a horrible representative of Him—for He alone is ultimately the only hope for any of us.”
Featured image credit: Michael Tait via Instagram