Brian Littrell just pulled the ultimate dad move—showing up at his son’s American Idol audition and stealing the spotlight. That’s right, the Backstreet Boys legend proved that even when your kid is trying to shine, dads will always find a way to grab the mic.
Brian’s 22-year-old son, Baylee Littrell, auditioned during the season 23 premiere on Sunday night (March 9), hoping to make a name for himself that didn’t involve screaming fans in ‘90s cargo pants. Baylee bravely performed his own original song, “Waiting On Myself To Die”—a title that immediately made everyone question if the boy was okay. (Someone please check on him.)
When Judges Ask, Dads Deliver
New judge and former Idol winner Carrie Underwood was clearly impressed, proving once again that she could find talent in a potato sack if it had enough emotional depth.
“You’re really good, like, really good,” Carrie said, using her expert I-know-a-star-when-I-see-one voice. “I loved the song, and that’s a risk too, when people come in singing their own songs. That was great, and you went there emotionally, and I think you could go very, very far in this competition.”
Luke Bryan, meanwhile, had other plans. Instead of letting Baylee enjoy his moment, Luke went full chaos mode and casually asked, “Hey, why don’t you sing with your dad?”
Cue Brian Littrell, who was probably minding his business in the wings, thinking he was just there for moral support. Suddenly, he was yanked into the spotlight like it was 1999 again. And let’s be real—he was NOT about to say no.
Cue the Emotional Backstreet Dad Moment
After the impromptu duet, Brian did what every supportive father does—got choked up while pretending he wasn’t about to ugly cry on national television.
“We’re super proud. He’s obviously grown up in the business,” Brian said, his voice doing that proud-dad-about-to-weep wobble. “You know, I think he’s cut out for it.” (Cue Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way” softly playing in the background.)
Naturally, Baylee got four yes votes because, duh, of course he did. Did you think the son of a Backstreet Boy was going to get rejected? That’s not how reality TV works.
Instagram Dad Mode: Activated
After the episode aired, Brian went full-on social media dad, firing up Instagram to blast his excitement for the world to see:
“Congrats @bayleelittrell_music on an incredible premiere with @americanidol. I am so proud of you Bubba – can’t wait to see you in #Hollywood!! #GoldenTicket #BayleeLittrell #BayleeOnIdol”
Because if your dad doesn’t aggressively hashtag your success, did it even happen?
And thus, the next chapter of Littrell: The Sequel has begun. Will Baylee make it all the way? Will Brian continue to pop up like a musical Zordon whenever his son is on stage? We shall see. Stay tuned, and Backstreet’s back, ALRIGHT!
