Aaron and Nick’s rise to fame is explored in ‘The Carters: Hurts to Love You’

In a poignant exploration of the life of late pop sensation Aaron Carter, Bruce Willis's daughter Scout shared her childhood admiration for the singer-rapper in the upcoming documentary ‘The Carters: Hurts to Love You,’ premiering on Paramount+ on April 15. The documentary chronicles the relationship between Aaron and his brother Nick, a member of the Backstreet Boys, while shedding light on the broader impacts of mental health and addiction within the Carter family. Scout, 33, expresses her deep-seated admiration for Aaron, recalling moments from her childhood when she was captivated by his charisma and talent. She recounts with vivid emotion the experience of finally meeting him on her 12th birthday, promoted by her father Bruce Willis inviting Aaron to the celebration at Disney World. The juxtaposition of their youthful innocence during this encounter with the stark realities of Aaron's later life — his struggles with loneliness and addiction — offers a sobering reflection on the pressures faced by young stars. The documentary features deeper narratives, including insights from Aaron's twin sister, Angel, who details the complications of growing up in a family teetering on the brink of fame and tragedy. Their story resonates as a cautionary tale in an era where mental health issues are increasingly recognized. Directed by Soleil Moon Frye, who herself has walked the difficult path of child stardom, the film aims not only to honor the Carter legacy but also to engage viewers in vital conversations regarding the often-unseen struggles that accompany fame. This documentary serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding towards those grappling with their inner demons. The commitment the filmmakers made to not only narrate the story but also provide mental health resources suggests an intention to turn personal grief into a public platform for meaningful discussion, highlighting that the issues faced by Aaron are not solitary but affect many. Hopefully, this production emphasizes the urgent need for compassion and support for those dealing with mental health challenges, especially within the high-pressure environment of celebrity culture.