American Idol star, 17, announces birth of first child with wife

Triston Harper, a fan favorite country singer from American Idol Season 22, took to social media and announced the birth of his first child!
AMERICAN IDOL - Ò814 (Iconic Idol Moments)Ó - The Top 12 perform unforgettable songs inspired by iconic ÒAmerican IdolÓ moments, honoring the showÕs legendary history. Season three winner Fantasia returns to the ÒIdolÓ stage, and artist in residence Jelly Roll joins our live studio audience. MONDAY, APRIL 28 (8:00-10:01 p.m. EDT) on ABC. RYAN SEACREST, JELLY ROLL,
AMERICAN IDOL - Ò814 (Iconic Idol Moments)Ó - The Top 12 perform unforgettable songs inspired by iconic ÒAmerican IdolÓ moments, honoring the showÕs legendary history. Season three winner Fantasia returns to the ÒIdolÓ stage, and artist in residence Jelly Roll joins our live studio audience. MONDAY, APRIL 28 (8:00-10:01 p.m. EDT) on ABC. RYAN SEACREST, JELLY ROLL, | (Disney/Eric McCandless)

At just 17 years old, Triston Harper, the talented breakout star from American Idol’s season 22, is celebrating his newest and most heartwarming role yet—a dad.

The young singer-songwriter has welcomed a baby girl, Brenley Lichelle Harper, with his wife, Paris Reed, who is also 17. It’s a story that combines early fame, young love, and the ultimate milestone of parenthood, all in swift succession.

Triston, known for his emotionally grounded performances on American Idol, had already won over the hearts of millions with his soulful voice and story-driven songs. His entrance into the national spotlight painted a picture of resilience and authenticity, which translated beautifully from his performances to his personal life.

After tying the knot with Paris Reed in a private ceremony in November 2024, the couple shared their exciting news online. Just two days after his nuptial reveal, Triston’s mom, the proud grandmother, shared the unexpected but thrilling announcement of Paris’s pregnancy. The family turned to Facebook, where the posts began spreading heartfelt updates about the baby-to-be.

Fast forward to June 23, 2025, when Brenley Lichelle made her grand “entrance,” as Triston’s mother, Hattie Mae Sullivan, so joyously put it. Sharing her excitement on social media, Hattie lovingly introduced her granddaughter to the world, tipping her virtual hat to baby Brenley’s exuberant “boss mode” personality already evident at just hours old.

From celebrating her grandson’s ranking in the top five finalists of American Idol to her new G-ma title, Hattie’s pride radiates through her words. You can feel the warmth of a close-knit family amid the whirlwind of sudden fame and life changes.

For Triston, his life has been in fast-forward mode since his unforgettable American Idol audition, which earned him a standing ovation from music giants Lionel Richie and Katy Perry. His rendition of Jason Isbell's "Cover Me Up" was more than a performance; it was a testament to a young artist who sings straight from the heart.

And now, as a father, that same sense of raw authenticity he brought to the stage seems to guide the next big chapter in his life. While 17 may seem an early age to step into parenthood, Triston has already shown incredible depth and maturity, making him more than ready to meet the challenges this new role brings.

Of course, like any young celebrity facing the double pressure of stardom and parenthood, Triston Harper isn’t exactly stepping into predictable waters. Still, if there’s one thing he’s shown his fans, it’s that pressure doesn’t break someone with his drive and resilience.

After achieving national fame, releasing his single “H.O.P.E.,” and bonding deeply with a global audience through his music, it’s clear Triston will approach fatherhood with the same dedication and heart.

Brenley’s arrival adds another layer to the growing Harper legacy. With a father whose voice moves listeners and a supportive family backbone, baby Brenley already has what every child deserves most–a foundation built on love.


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