Fans Shocked By Drug Allegations Against BNL’s Steven Page
Posted July 16, 2008 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Fans of the Barenaked Ladies are still reeling from the news that lead singer Steven Page has been slapped with a serious drug charge south of the border.
Page, the goofy, clean-cut front man of the Toronto band, was charged Friday with criminal possession of a controlled substance after police in Fayetteville, N.Y. claim to have found cocaine and marijuana in an apartment.
The 38-year-old was taken into custody along with two women. He has since vowed to fight the charges. In a message posted on the band’s website, the group thanked fans for their support and said “the validity of the charges against Steven will be strongly contested.”
“While this is happening, it’s business as usual for Barenaked Ladies,” states the message.
“We will continue to perform and look forward to heading into the studio later this year to record a new album. We want to thank our loyal fans for their continued support during this difficult time.”
On the Ladies’ online message board Wednesday, some fans expressed disappointment but most promised to support Page and his bandmates.
Members of the Riverdale community, where Page has been a long-time resident, were stunned by the news.
“Shocked, sure, yeah,” said friend Chris Antaras. “He’s too nice. I don’t understand it – I’m sure it’s just a misunderstanding.”
Page, a father of three, had recently separated from his wife. He was reportedly visiting his girlfriend when he was arrested.
Together for two decades, the Barenaked Ladies are one of Canada’s most popular groups. They’ve put out a dozen albums, most recently a children’s CD entitled Snacktime.
Their next public appearance was supposed to be a benefit concert hosted by Disney and Playskool from August 22 to 24 at Eisenhower Park on Long Island.
Page is scheduled to appear in a Fayetteville court on August 26. If convicted he could face up to 15 years in prison.
