Backstreet Boys Member Brian Littrell’s Son Will Make His Debut on ‘American Idol’ This Season

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Backstreet Boys superstar Brian Littrell revealed on the Today show that his 22-year-old son, Baylee, will appear on the upcoming season of American Idol.

“He was just texting me last night, going, ‘Dad, dude, how do you do this? Like, it’s hard work,’” Littrell said of his son navigating the music industry. “He’s been busting his butt, and I’m super proud of him. He kind of gets a new sense of reality of what this is.”

Baylee, whom Brian shares with wife Leighanne Littrell, teased his time on Idol via Instagram earlier this month. Well guys recently I had the opportunity to audition for @americanidol Tune in to see the season premiere and what happens on 3/9/25,” he wrote alongside a screenshot of the show’s logo.

Brian sweetly supported his son in the comments, writing, “Bubba I can’t wait!!!!! Good Luck we’re all counting on you hahaha.”

Baylee released his debut single, a country song called “Don’t Knock It,” back in 2018. “My dad has always been my champion, so he’s always told me to just do what I want to do and follow my dreams, and to do my best and not overthink it,” he told People at the time. “It’s really just taken so much pressure off.”

The newest season of American Idol premieres March 9 on ABC, before it streams the next day on Hulu. This season marks the first with season 4 winner Carrie Underwood on the judges panel — replacing Katy Perry — alongside Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.