Triston Harper, the 16-year-old American Idol star from McIntosh, Alabama, recently made a big announcement: he’s going to be a father. Harper, who made it to the top five on season 22 of the singing competition, is known for his emotional performances, such as his audition with Jason Isbell’s “Cover Me Up” on guitar, which earned praise from the judges. Katy Perry admired his authenticity and called him an “old soul,” while Lionel Richie praised his voice as a “storytelling voice.”
Harper’s baby announcement has caused a stir online due to his young age. Some critics have commented, “Two babies having a baby,” questioning whether they are ready to manage life. However, many fans have offered their congratulations, expressing support for the couple. One person pointed out that both Harper and his wife, Paris Reed, appear happy and have support, while another emphasized that Harper’s commitment to stepping into a family role is admirable.
Born into a challenging environment, Harper’s path to stardom is even more inspiring considering his turbulent childhood. He grew up in a home marked by hardship, with his family becoming homeless when he was just 12. His mother was in an abusive relationship, and Harper has shared that music became his escape. His mother has said that she always wanted her children to have a better life, which is why Harper turned to music as a form of expression.
Despite not winning the American Idol trophy, Harper continues to pursue his music career. His debut single, “H.O.P.E.,” which speaks to his journey, has garnered over 383,000 streams on Spotify. His story resonates with many, not just because of his talent, but also due to his perseverance through adversity. Harper remains focused on his music, and his fans continue to follow his progress as he navigates both his career and personal life.
The singer shared the exciting news of his impending fatherhood on November 8, 2024, with an image of him and his wife, Paris Reed, holding a positive pregnancy test. Just two days before the announcement, Harper and Reed had made their marriage official. Harper’s mother, in a lighthearted post, expressed her joy at becoming a grandmother, adding to the growing excitement surrounding the couple’s big news.