Instagram/@rokspics
Brian Littrell from the iconic Backstreet Boys has lost his “on my mind” rhythm of support for his comrades. In his impassioned plea, Brian told a congregation to pray for the wife and children of Charlie Kirk, standing in faith with God in trying times.
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Posting during a week that shook him to his core, Brian Littrell invoked both innocence and ire grossly divided his followers. While sitting in what looked like an airport lounge, Littrell wrote of experiencing a very long flight trying to digest events. “Office chair for the next 12/13 hours. Then connecting. Man, the events of this past week will shake you to your core.” The 49-year-old musician sought solace in God: “I put my trust in All Mighty God for He directs my path…. He always has and He always will.”
He then sought prayer: “praying for @charliekirk1776 wife and children,” in reference to the family of the conservative commentator after Kirk’s death. The situation drew comparisons to JD Vance‘s recent tribute.
Mostly supportive comments were posted. “Thank you for your words Brian,” one fan wrote, “There are just some crazy things happening in this world around us. And not just in the US. So sad people make your words about politics because all I read is someone just being shook up about all the bad stuff happening in this today world.”
Another said, “You’re a great human being Brian, you’re never afraid to speak your mind, in time like these it’s much needed. Much respect to you and your faith.”
Yet other users attacked the singer for his inconsistency in outrage: “What is the reason you only make these type of posts when someone from maga gets attacked. Why do you not speak out when a democrat politician gets shot (she had kids too), when children get shot in schools or when lgbtq or poc get attacked.”
The ensuing flame war in reply saw others come to the defense of Littrell tying to shut down dissent. “You can’t tell someone not to talk about their points of view on social media based on their job, come on now.”
Another clearly states her mixed feelings: “I’ve always admired you as a singer and artist but your political views are far away from mine. As a person who follows you since 6 years old (and now I’m 38) I think you’re a good person at heart, but I honestly can’t wrap my head around the fact that you support someone like Charlie.”
It definitely goes beyond American shores. “It has affected us all around the world we are devastated and cannot shake this emptiness,” chimed in a British fan, followed by another, “RIP to Charlie Kirk. Different opinions does not mean you deserve what happened to him. Very sad.”
The Backstreet Boys’ Littrell has never publicly stepped out of the closet on his Christian faith and conservatism. He talked about how the Backstreet Boys are mid world tour. He slipped in the title of a show to be held in Kazakhstan. Brian recently shared a heartwarming backstage moment with his son ahead of another performance.
From a spiritual perch, and in the face of all tough issues, his voice has continued to define him—both on and, for that matter, off the stage. Summarized by a long-time fan: “Always a Backstreet Boys fan! And my fave is you – even now more than ever, you have a heart of gold and a great mind with common sense.”
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At times of hardship, artists become unexpected sources of relief for their fans. This message from Littrell is proof that celebrity platforms turn into collective spaces for mourning and reflection, albeit with differing opinions. The tragic events also brought to mind Erika Kirk‘s heartbreaking memorial speech for her husband.
