Season 23 of “American Idol” is carrying on the trend of highlighting up-and-coming talent with well-known last names. Baylee Littrell, son of Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell, tried out for the show’s first round in front of judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie.
Underwood said, “There’s something about you that looks familiar,” acknowledging Baylee right away. After performing his original song, “Waiting on Myself to Die,” the 22-year-old dreamer was awarded a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.
Baylee is not the first competitor with ties to the business. Over the years, a number of “nepo babies” have attempted to make their mark on “Idol,” occasionally encountering doubt but frequently demonstrating their abilities.
American Idol’s Notable “Nepo Baby” Contestants
- Emmy Russell – Granddaughter of country legend Loretta Lynn, she reached the top five in season 22.
- Ava Maybee – Daughter of Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer), made the top 10 in season 20.
- Leah Marlene – Daughter of Derry Grehan (Honeymoon Suite guitarist), also reached the top 10 in season 20.
- Kaya Stewart – Daughter of Dave Stewart (Eurythmics), competed in season 21.
- Jane Carrey – Daughter of Jim Carrey, earned a Golden Ticket in season 11.
- Grace Franklin – Granddaughter of Aretha Franklin, auditioned in season 20.
- Lara Johnston – Daughter of Tom Johnston (Doobie Brothers), made it to Hollywood Week in season 10.
- Gianna Isabella – Daughter of Brenda K. Starr, a top contender in season 15.
- Alex Preston – Cousin of Jo Dee Messina, found success with independent music in season 13.
Politics and Sports Connections on ‘Idol’
- Claudia Conway – Daughter of Kellyanne Conway, auditioned in 2021.
- Ayla Brown – Daughter of Sen. Scott Brown (R-Mass.), finished in the top 16 (season 5).
- Nikko Smith – Son of Ozzie Smith (MLB Hall of Famer), competed in season 4.
- Shannon Magrane – Daughter of Joe Magrane (MLB pitcher), finished 11th in season 11.
- Jordin Sparks – Daughter of NFL player Phillippi Sparks, won season 6.
Are Nepo Contestants Able to Show Their Mettle?
Even with their well-known backgrounds, skill is important.Luke Bryan praised Baylee Littrell for forging new territory, and the judges were ecstatic by his audition. As former contestants like Jordin Sparks and Emmy Russell showed, family ties may open doors, but ability keeps them open.
Will Baylee follow in his father’s footsteps or will he choose to pursue his own? We’ll find out in time.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter