Mattie Pruitt’s Mom Sara Lyle Auditioned for American Idol While Pregnant With Her
Mattie Pruitt, the youngest American Idol season 23 contestant, left her musical journey on the reality show on Sunday, May 11, 2025.
She delivered a powerful performance throughout the competition, and her heartfelt Mother’s Day tribute showed maturity far beyond her years.
Highlights
- Mattie Pruitt’s parents, Justin Pruitt and Sara Lyle, raised her in a supportive family alongside her 12 siblings as part of a blended family.
- Sara Lyle had auditioned for American Idol while she was pregnant with Mattie.
- After the divorce, Justin married Eleanora Pruitt, and Sara married Chris Lyle.
Mattie failed to advance to the Top 5 of the American Idol season 23 but left a lasting impact on fans. They have praised her talent, composure, and bright future.
She stayed true to her roots throughout her time on the reality show, and her support never wavered. She often gave shoutouts to her home in Eagleville and her family’s constant support.
Her authenticity made her a fan favorite, from handmade posters at Eagleville School to cheering watch parties across Rutherford County.
Mattie thanked her fans, the judges, and fellow contestants in an emotional farewell on Sunday night. American Idol has fulfilled her dream of becoming a singer.
Although her Idol journey may have ended, it’s just the beginning of her musical career. With her talent and stage presence, netizens expect big things from her.
Moreover, she was under a lot of stress learning all of her songs and balancing school.
If it weren’t for the judges, she wouldn’t have been able to go to Disneyland and participate in Disney Night.
Disney songs are coming and I’m still HERE and so thankful for the outpouring of supporters! Getting saved by the judges was a moment I’ll never forget — and I’m so ready to prove why I deserve this spot in the Top 7. I’ve been working so hard this week and I can’t wait for y’all to see what I’ve been cooking up! LET’S DO THIS!!!
Mattie Pruitt’s Parents Supported Her Musical Journey
Mattie Pruitt, the daughter of Justin Pruitt and Sara Lyle, was born on April 16, 2009, in Eagleville, Tennessee. She grew up with her 12 siblings in a blended family.
Sara Lyle had previously auditioned for American Idol while pregnant with Mattie.
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Mattie comes from a loving, supportive family, but her parents divorced.
Justin Shawn Pruitt owns Middle Tennessee Traffic Management and expressed that watching his daughter chase her dreams was one of his life’s high points.
Proud Dad Moment! From the time she could talk, Mattie Pruitt has been singing. Watching her grow into the young woman she is today—so devoted to her craft, so passionate about her music—has been one of the greatest blessings God has given me. Her dedication, heart and talent shine in everything she does, and now she’s stepping onto an even bigger stage.
After the divorce, Justin married Eleanora Pruitt, who played a massive role in assisting Mattie.
Meanwhile, Sara Lyle, married to Chris Lyle, was happy to learn about her daughter’s musical journey, as they shared the same talent for singing.
She is one of Mattie’s most prominent supporters and nurtured her passion for singing from a young age. Mattie was singing her heart out from the moment she could make sounds.
Sara supported her when she wasn’t selected for the top 5 on American Idol.
That’s okay! Mattie Pruitt, you can come on home to Mama now! You are my #1 American Idol! I couldn’t be any more proud of you. Hold your head high and chin up. This is just the beginning, baby. Thank you all so much for joining in on this amazing journey; we appreciate all the love and support, and all the voting you did! This was one of her best nights yet, if you ask me. I’m excited to see what comes next. She did Tennessee proud!
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Mattie was a shy kid growing up, hiding under tables to avoid singing in front of others.
Her musical journey began when she sang the national anthem at local events. The audience’s praise for her performance gave her the confidence to continue singing.
Music is her passion, and she auditioned for American Idol to pursue her dream and showcase her voice. Her music doesn’t fit a specific category, and she enjoys classic and modern music.
Additional Information
- Mattie Pruitt attended Barfield Elementary, Rockvale Elementary, and Christiana Middle School before moving to Eagleville.
- Teddy Swims, Chris Stapleton, Whitney Houston, Etta James, and Paramore are some of the artists who inspired her to pursue music.
- She amassed 156.6K followers on TikTok and 54.3K followers on Instagram.
