Title: "American Idol Star Becomes Dad at 17, Months After Shotgun Wedding at 16"

This version retains all key details (identity, ages, timeline, and context of the wedding) while maintaining clarity and conciseness.

American Idol Alum Triston Harper, 17, Welcomes Baby Girl Months After Wedding

Triston Harper, the teenage singer who gained fame on American Idol Season 22, has become a father at 17, just months after marrying his girlfriend, Paris Reed, in a shotgun wedding. The couple welcomed their daughter, Brenley Lichelle Harper, on June 23, as confirmed by Harper’s mother, Hattie Mae Sullivan, in a joyful Facebook post.

A New Chapter
Sullivan announced the arrival of her granddaughter, sharing Brenley weighed 6 lbs 6 oz and declaring, “She ain’t here to play!” The proud grandmother humorously added that the newborn was already in “boss mode,” demanding feedings, diaper changes, and dimmed lights. Harper and Reed, who married in late 2024 while expecting, celebrated their growing family earlier this year with a gender reveal and Mother’s Day tributes.

[Image: Triston and Paris holding baby Brenley’s tiny hand, with Sullivan’s Facebook caption visible.]

From Wedding Bells to Parenthood
Harper, then 16, surprised fans in November 2024 by announcing his marriage to Reed, 17, via Facebook. Days later, Sullivan revealed the pregnancy with a photo of the couple holding a positive test. The news came shortly after Harper’s American Idol elimination in May 2024, where he finished in the Top 5. Despite his youth, Harper embraced his new roles as husband and father, posting heartfelt messages to Reed and his mother on Mother’s Day.

[Image: Triston and Paris at their rustic wedding, smiling in casual attire.]

Rising from Adversity
Harper’s journey to fame was marked by hardship. During his Idol audition, he shared his traumatic childhood, recounting homelessness at age 12 after fleeing an abusive stepfather. “We slept on sidewalks,” he told judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, who praised his raw talent while offering vocal advice. His resilience resonated with viewers, making him a fan favorite.

[Image: Triston auditioning on American Idol, emotional as he discusses his past.]

Life After Idol
Though eliminated before the finale (won by Abi Carter), Harper leveraged his platform, releasing his debut single, H.O.P.E., in May 2024. The track reflects his life motto: “Hold On, Pain Ends.” Fans continue to support him as he balances parenthood and music, proving his story is far from over.

[Image: Triston performing on American Idol, gripping the microphone with determination.]

As Harper navigates teenage fatherhood and a budding career, his family and fans cheer him on, celebrating every milestone in his unconventional yet inspiring journey.

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