A New Chapter for 'NSync Stars
It seems that former 'NSync bandmates Lance Bass and Joey Fatone are taking their partnership in a new direction. The duo has officially stepped into the role of hosts for the E! network’s fresh series, Cocktail Wars. In this high-stakes competition, they oversee amateur bartenders as they face off in various mixology challenges.
Despite their years of touring the globe and sampling countless menus, both Bass and Fatone humble themselves when discussing their new roles. “We thought we knew cocktails until we started doing this show,” Bass admitted. Fatone jokingly referred to their expertise as merely being “fake experts” in the field of mixology.
The Gin Revelation
While their shared history includes extensive travel and testing various beverages, there was one spirit that Fatone consistently steered clear of for most of his life: gin. “I would never really drink gin. I never liked it,” the 49-year-old shared. However, filming the show forced him to broaden his horizons. He noted that the quality and variety of drinks prepared by the contestants during the competition finally turned him into a fan of the spirit.
Fatone wasn't the only one experiencing a shift in palate. Professional mixologist and show judge Melissa Brooke noted that she played a part in introducing new flavors to the hosts, revealing that Fatone also developed a newfound appreciation for blackberry whiskey during the production.
From Partying to Appreciation
The transition from their touring days to their current roles has changed how the pair views the act of drinking. In the past, their choices were simple—rum and Cokes for Fatone, and Jack and Cokes for Bass. Today, the focus has shifted from the drink itself to the social experience.
“I think I enjoy the experience of getting with friends and having a cocktail, and just that experience is different now at an older age than just being young and just being like ‘get me drunk!’” Bass explained.
For Fatone, the show has turned him into a bit of an amateur scientist behind the bar. He now finds himself analyzing the techniques and ingredients used in the drinks he encounters in his everyday life, curious about the nuances of preparation and presentation.
Competition Dynamics
Cocktail Wars challenges contestants to compete for a $10,000 grand prize, with judges evaluating their work based on creativity, presentation, and flavor. Even industry veterans like Melissa Brooke find the competition intense. “I don’t know that I would want to be a contestant on the show,” she remarked, highlighting how difficult the craft is even for those with extensive professional experience.
The series, which premieres August 18 on E!, will feature a variety of guest judges, including personalities such as Rachel Maddow, Seth Green, and stars from the Real Housewives franchise, all lending their perspectives to the spirited competition.