Backstreet Boys’ Brian Littrell Got ‘Choked Up’ Talking About Son Baylee’s American Idol Run, And I Love AJ McLean’s Proud Dad Vibes Too

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People who were young during the ‘NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, and 98 Degrees era, eagerly awaiting their appearances on TRL, had a special moment when they tuned into American Idol in 2025. In the Season 23 lineup, Baylee Littrell, son of Brian Littrell from the Backstreet Boys, was a contestant. The proud father got emotional as he spoke about his son’s journey, but I found AJ McLean’s reaction equally heartwarming.

The 23rd season of American Idol made history due to Carrie Underwood taking over Katy Perry’s judge role, a position she held twenty years after her own triumph on the show. During this season, 22-year-old Baylee Littrell was among those who performed for Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and the Season 4 winner. However, his father, Brian Littrell, had envisioned a different route to stardom for him, as he shared with Parade magazine.

Initially, I wasn’t keen on him taking on the role, as they had been encouraging him for several years. They would say things like “Come try out” and he would respond with a no. However, when the opportunity came, he rose to the occasion. He proved himself to be extremely professional, displaying great talent and an admirable character. He is truly a wonderful person, with a heart as golden as gold itself.

I can certainly understand why I might have had reservations about my daughter participating in American Idol, considering the reception Carnie Wilson’s daughter, Lola Bonfiglio, received. However, it was ultimately Baylee who decided to take the chance, and he managed to make it all the way to the Top 20. There were significant eliminations at that stage, but Baylee seized the opportunity.

The whole thing still makes Brian tear up, as he said:

As I reflect upon my experiences, there’s one individual who truly tugs at my heartstrings – a remarkable figure, the most inspirational entity in my life at present. He moves me more than any other force in existence. Ranked 20th out of 124,000 entries isn’t a small feat; it speaks volumes about his talent.

Now, I’d like to seize this opportunity for a brief, humble promotion: His debut single is set to release on the 24th of July. Entitled ‘Hey Jesus,’ it’s an offering that you won’t want to miss. Give it a listen!

There’s nothing to be ashamed of in this father’s actions, and it brings a smile to my face to learn how proud Brian Littrell is of his son. It’s not just Brian feeling this way, but the entire Backstreet Boys group, who were a band before Baylee was even born. AJ McLean confessed that he shed tears when he watched Baylee on American Idol, commenting: “I couldn’t help but cry my eyes out.

Throughout his life, we’ve had the pleasure of knowing Baylee. From belting out songs with us during soundchecks, to opening for us years ago, and now embarking on his own career – it’s simply amazing! He’s an exceptionally gifted songwriter. I can hardly believe the level of talent he possesses. It’s clear that greatness runs in the family. In my opinion, he truly excelled during his performance.

It’d be quite fun to imagine the Backstreet Boys as a group of dads, right? Despite Baylee Littrell not making it to the finale in Season 23 of American Idol, let’s hope this journey provided valuable lessons for him that he can apply in his growing profession.

Regarding whether there will be more celebrity offspring in the singing competition when it resumes in 2026, we’ll have to wait and see, as for now, the identity of the judges remains unknown. There are whispers that Carrie Underwood might be departing from American Idol, so a fresh face could take her place. If you’re interested in revisiting Baylee Littrell’s American Idol journey, Season 23 is accessible for streaming with a Hulu subscription.

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2025-07-04 23:07