Backstreet Boys’ Brian Littrell Tells Son Baylee He’ll ‘Always Be in Your Corner’ After ‘American Idol’ Exit

Brian Littrell‘s love for his son Baylee is clearly larger than life.

The Backstreet Boys singer’s 22-year-old son Baylee Littrell auditioned for season 23 of American Idol, debuting on the show last month and surviving all the way to this week, before he was eliminated just shy of the top 14 contestants on Monday night.

Baylee took to Instagram on Tuesday to reflect on his Idol journey, sharing three photos from the show and writing, “My American Idol journey has come to an end. Thank you so much to all that supported me this season. I love you all. #idol #bayleetrain”

His famous dad commented on the post, writing, “Bubba I am and always will be in your corner. [You] are so strong and so very talented, and inspire me every day. It’s never the end, only the beginning for so many to be blessed by your gifts….. you killed it last night.”

Baylee’s mom, actress Leighanne Littrell, chimed in as well in the comments: “You killed it bubba! SO SO VERY PROUD! You are a true artist, no bells and whistles needed! Keep on keepin on! I can’t wait for what’s to come!”

Brian Littrell’s bandmate (and cousin) Kevin Richardson wrote with a heart emoji: “So glad you got to experience this. Proud of you young man. Your journey has just begun…”

Throughout his time on the show, Baylee covered Pharrell Williams’ “Happy,” John Legend’s “All of Me,” and Brian Littrell’s own solo song “Gone Without Goodbye.” Below, you can revisit Littrell’s audition with an original song, plus a mini-duet with Dad.

American Idol airs Sundays and Mondays on ABC at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. On Sunday’s episode, host Ryan Seacrest will unveil the 2025 inductees into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on a special episode mentored by Rock Hall member James Taylor.