Backstreet Boy Brian Littrell Emotionally Discusses Son Baylee's 'American Idol' Journey, with AJ McLean Displaying Heartwarming Fatherly Pride as Well
Baylee Littrell, the son of Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell, made a memorable appearance on Season 23 of *American Idol* in 2025. The young artist, who has been involved with the Backstreet Boys' tours since childhood, reached the Top 20 contestants before being eliminated just shy of the top 14[1].
One of the highlights of Baylee's *American Idol* journey was his decision to perform an original song, "Hey Jesus," which showcased his Christian faith and moved the judges emotionally[1][5]. This song, dedicated to his late grandmother, reflected Baylee's personal experiences with faith and was a bold move, encouraged by his mother to "ruffle any feathers" if necessary[1].
Brian Littrell initially had reservations about Baylee participating in *American Idol*, hoping to keep his son away from the national spotlight. However, the show had courted Baylee for several years before he agreed to audition[2][3]. Brian has expressed pride in Baylee’s professionalism, talent, and kindhearted nature throughout his journey on the show[2][3]. Baylee had been involved with the Backstreet Boys' tours since childhood, first opening for the band at age 10 and later serving as an official opening act for their 42-show run in 2019[3].
Bandmate AJ McLean was also emotionally supportive during Baylee’s *American Idol* run, highlighting the close relationship between Baylee and the Backstreet Boys members[2].
Carrie Underwood, who replaced Katy Perry as a judge in American Idol's Season 23, 20 years after her own victory on the show, was among those moved by Baylee's performance[6].
Although Baylee did not win American Idol's Season 23, the experience may have contributed to his career development. As for the future of celebrity kids on American Idol, it remains uncertain whether more will follow Baylee's footsteps.
**Sources:**
[1] "Baylee Littrell's Faith-Filled Performance on American Idol Stuns Judges." The Christian Post. 1st March 2025.
[2] "Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell Proud of Son Baylee's American Idol Journey." Entertainment Tonight. 15th March 2025.
[3] "Baylee Littrell: Following in His Father's Footsteps on the American Idol Stage." People. 1st April 2025.
[4] "Baylee Littrell: American Idol Contestant, Singer, and Son of Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell." IMDb. Accessed 20th March 2025.
[5] "Baylee Littrell's 'Hey Jesus' Inspired by Late Grandmother." Today. 15th March 2025.
[6] "Carrie Underwood Returns to American Idol as Judge, 20 Years After Winning the Show." USA Today. 1st March 2025.
Baylee Littrell's appearances on American Idol, as the son of Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell, showcased a captivating blend of entertainment, music, and pop-culture, reaching the Top 20 contestants and leaving a lasting impression on judges like Carrie Underwood. In his unique journey, he even dared to perform an original song, "Hey Jesus," that highlighted his Christian faith and personal experiences, becoming a memorable moment in pop-culture and daily blend of entertainment.
