Backstreet Pride! Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson Rally Behind Baylee After Shocking ‘American Idol’ Elimination

In a moment that left fans stunned and hearts aching, Baylee Littrell, the 22-year-old son of Backstreet Boys legend Brian Littrell, was eliminated from American Idol during the show’s first live cut of Season 23.

Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson

But if Baylee left the stage, he didn’t leave it alone—he had the unwavering support of not only his famous father but also Kevin Richardson, Brian’s longtime bandmate and Backstreet brother.

Baylee’s elimination on Monday, April 21, came as a surprise to many.

Known for his heartfelt performances and original songwriting, Baylee had quickly become a fan favorite.

After the show aired, he took to Instagram with grace and gratitude, 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.”

The next morning, his father responded with a message that stopped scrolls across the internet.

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… you killed it last night.

 🔥❤️

Hours later, Baylee posted a soulful cover of Bob Dylan’s “Girl from the North Country”, a nod to his musical roots and passion.

Kevin Richardson chimed in with a simple red heart emoji—a subtle but powerful show of solidarity from a man who’s watched Baylee grow up backstage.

Brian and Baylee Littrell in 2019:

A Musical Legacy, A New Journey

The son of a pop music icon, Baylee Littrell has never shied away from the immense shadow cast by his father’s legendary career.

Speaking candidly during his American Idol run, Baylee admitted, “Following in my dad’s footsteps is scary because his career is one of the most extraordinary in music history. No one can ever compare.

Baylee’s connection to music was forged early.

He recalled being just 8 or 9 years old, opening for the Backstreet Boys in sold-out arenas, awestruck by the screaming fans and dazzling lights.

“I was mesmerized,” he said, a memory that seemed to ignite the passion still burning in his performances today.

Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson

And Brian Littrell wasn’t just a spectator in his son’s American Idol journey—he joined him on stage during Baylee’s audition, performing an original song together in a moment that left the judges and audience alike deeply moved.

Fans Outraged by Elimination

Baylee’s departure sparked a wave of disbelief and outrage among fans.

“They don’t know what they lost on the show! But we are always behind you, and we will not let you go.

The Baylee train is just beginning,” wrote one supporter on Instagram.

Another fumed, “How they’ve wasted your talent!! Better things are sure to come!! Keep shining with that voice!!”

Six contestants, including Baylee and fellow standout Zaylie Windsor (whom Carrie Underwood compared to a young Taylor Swift), were cut from the competition—an episode that’s now being criticized as one of the most controversial eliminations in Idol history.

Despite the disappointment, Baylee isn’t slowing down.

If anything, his fanbase has only grown stronger—and louder.

His emotional delivery, his soulful voice, and his refusal to be defined by his last name have made him a rising star in his own right.

Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson

Backstreet Brotherhood Still Strong

Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson’s public support speaks volumes about the tight-knit bond between Backstreet Boys members.

Though the band first formed in 1993, their connection runs deeper than music.

This wasn’t just bandmates supporting a friend’s son—it was family supporting family.

As Baylee Littrell steps away from the Idol spotlight, one thing is certain: this is not the end of his journey.

Pin by Ruby Lake on Brian littrell and kevin richardson | Backstreet boys, Kevin richardson, Brian littrell

With the full force of Backstreet loyalty behind him and a growing army of fans who refuse to let his talent go unnoticed, Baylee is poised for something far greater than a single TV show could offer.

American Idol may have let him go—but the world is just starting to listen.