Baylee Littrell, the 21-year-old son of Backstreet Boys' singer Brian Littrell, is all set to make his debut on American Idol this Sunday, March 9, 2025. Born and raised in Alpharetta, Georgia, Baylee has grown up surrounded by music, which has undoubtedly shaped his path following his dreams. From introducing his father on stage at just five years old to opening for the iconic group at ten, his early exposure has surely prepared him for the rigors of the competition.
Baylee's musical career began impressively early; according to reports from Us Weekly, he was performing before the crowds at Backstreet Boys' concerts, building invaluable experience throughout his childhood. “I would sing two or three songs before the opener would come out and play their set,” said Littrell. Fast forward to 2019, he became the official opening act on the Backstreet Boys’ 42-show run, which he describes as “the experience of a lifetime.”
His musical evolution includes diverse experiences such as performing at the Broadway musical Disaster! when he was just 13 and opening for fellow artists like Chris Lane before releasing his own debut album, titled 770-Country, back in 2019.
Despite his lineage, where he could understandably receive both advantages and challenges, it remains uncertain how Littrell will fare on American Idol. Fans and supporters eagerly await the outcome of his audition, which will be revealed during the show's premiere. He is planning to organize a watch party with family and friends to cheer him on.
The excitement doesn’t stop with Baylee. Over on Australian shores, three talented local performers are stirring up anticipation for the Season 10 finale of Australian Idol. John Van Beek, 19, Gisella Colletti, 17, and Hannah Waddell, 25, all hail from Perth and have made it to the top 12 of this much-loved competition.
John Van Beek, whose singing career blossomed following a severe arm injury which ended his aspirations as a trampolining competitor, speaks passionately about his new direction. He explained to The Sunday Times this week how his parents encouraged him to assess his talents after his injury. “Look, if [Benson Boone] can do it, just being a simple dude showing what he’s got, and people believing in him, I’ve got something to show as well,” he noted, drawing parallels between his experiences and those of the rising star.
Meanwhile, Gisella Colletti’s connection to the competition unfolded dramatically. Supported by her school, Corpus Christi College, she shared the touching story of her surprise visit from judge Marcia Hines, saying, “All of a sudden the door opens and Marcia’s like, ‘Hello, Gisella’ — and it’s Marcia Hines.” That encounter led to her audition, which earned her a golden ticket to the top 30!
For Hannah Waddell, her path to the spotlight has been paved with challenges, yet she remains undeterred. Once part of MTV’s online music show at the tender age of 17, she noted the challenges faced by new artists seeking recognition: “It didn’t do too well. And I was thinking ‘Far out, I thought I was going to make it.’” Hannah, known for her stylish glasses, brings hidden talents to the stage with her ability to communicate through sign language and play both the guitar and piano.
Although the competition is fierce, love and support surround these idols, as the top 12 contestants gear up to perform live starting at 7 p.m. on March 9, 2025. It is surely going to be quite the show with talented contestants vying for the title and the opportunity to showcase their compelling passion for music.
And for those watching from home, the excitement and suspense will undoubtedly be palpable as these competitors, especially Baylee Littrell, navigate their paths through this challenging competition, one performance at a time. No matter the outcome, their journeys serve as inspirations to aspiring musicians everywhere.