Brian Littrell, renowned for his role in the Backstreet Boys, wore the proud dad badge with honor as his son Baylee stepped into the spotlight during the season 23 debut of American Idol on Sunday.
At 50, Littrell watched emotionally as his 22-year-old son, who bears a striking resemblance to him, captivated judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan, earning a ticket to the competition’s next round.
Underwood’s comment about Baylee’s familiar appearance hinted at his impressive musical heritage, revealing his connection to the pop music world.
Before delivering an original song in his audition, Baylee shared how his father’s illustrious career fueled his passion for music.
“Following in my dad’s footsteps is intimidating because his career is, in my eyes, one of the most remarkable in music history. It’s incomparable,” he confessed, brimming with respect.
Backstreet Boys singer Brian Littrell was a gushing, proud dad as his son Baylee auditioned during the season 23 premiere of American Idol on Sunday
The 50-year-old former boy bander got emotional after his 22-year-old lookalike son wowed judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan, and proceeded to the next stage of the singing competition
Ahead of his audition, which featured a performance of an original song, Baylee explained how his dad’s career as a pop star inspired his love for music; Backstreet Boys pictured in 1996
Reflecting on his childhood, he added, “I remember being around eight or nine when [Backstreet Boys] filled a massive arena. I had the chance to perform a couple of songs before them. When the guys took the stage, the cheers and dimmed lights were spellbinding.”
Brian shares his son, who in addition to singing also plays the guitar, with 55-year-old wife Leighanne Wallace.
‘Obviously, growing up in the industry, a lot of people look at that as such a perk. But it’s not easy,’ the I Want It That Way singer reflected on his only child’s experience. ‘I’ve always told everybody that he’s 10 times more talented than I ever was.’
‘We’re super proud. I think he’s cut out for it,’ he told cameras outside of the audition.
Before showing off his chops, the younger Littrell announced, ‘This song is about me personally wanting to give up and not giving up yet.
‘Trust me, I wish I wanted to do something completely different. But if I’m not doing music, there’s no way I can really exist.’
Following his performance, Carrie said approvingly, ‘I think you could go very, very far in this competition.’
Brian was happy to join his son for a harmonized encore of the song after Luke invited him to sing the chorus.
Brian shares his son with 55-year-old wife Leighanne Wallace
Baylee wrote on Instagram that he’s ‘still in shock’ from his successful audition
Following his performance, Carrie said approvingly, ‘I think you could go very, very far in this competition’
Baylee wrote on Instagram that he’s ‘still in shock’ from his successful audition.
Expressing his gratitude, he added, ‘Huge thanks to @CarrieUnderwood, @LukeBryan, and @LionelRichie! Such an incredible honor!’
Meanwhile, his parents also shared their happy reactions.
Leighanne wrote to her 126,000 followers, ‘So so proud of you Bay!!!! We are on the Baylee Train.’
And Brian left a supportive comment under the post, sharing, ‘So proud of you Bubba! It’s so hard to put yourself out there. Cause everyone will have something to say…… well there’s that….. and there’s what you believe and want for your life!!!!! Keep pushing.’
Host Ryan Seacrest teased the Littrells’ appearance ahead of the premiere, writing online, ‘Music runs in the Littrell family! A legendary last name, a powerful original song… You won’t want to miss this, West Coast!’
