American Idol Sweethearts Gabby Barrett and Cade Foehner Celebrate First Pregnancy: A New Chapter Begins
Congratulations are in order for beloved American Idol alums, Gabby Barrett, 20, and Cade Foehner, 24, who joyously announced they are expecting their first child together! The beloved couple, who captured hearts during their time on the reality singing competition, shared the exciting news less than a year after tying the knot in a beautiful ceremony. Their journey from fellow contestants to husband and wife, and now soon-to-be parents, has been a captivating one for fans and followers alike. The announcement has been met with an outpouring of love and support from their dedicated fanbase and fellow music industry peers.
The country music star opened up about their excitement in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, revealing the news on August 16. “We are very excited,” Gabby shared, her voice undoubtedly filled with joy. “The Lord has blessed us with a little one, and we’re really excited to finally be able to share the news with everybody and just have a big old family celebration about it.” This sentiment highlights not only their personal happiness but also their desire to share this momentous occasion with their loved ones and the wider world. The couple, whose romance blossomed during American Idol in 2018 and culminated in their October 2019 wedding, eagerly anticipates the arrival of their baby girl in early 2021.

A Dream Come True: Expecting a Baby Girl
Gabby couldn’t hide her excitement when discussing the gender of their baby. “We were really excited whether it was a boy or a girl. I always wanted a girl growing up, as well as a boy, so to have a girl first is just really exciting,” she expressed, clearly thrilled by the prospect of raising a daughter. Her playful side also shone through as she added, “I hope she gets his hair — definitely not mine.” This lighthearted comment underscores the genuine affection and anticipation the couple shares for their future bundle of joy. The “I Hope” hitmaker, whose career has seen a meteoric rise since her time on American Idol, found out about her pregnancy in May, a moment she vividly recalls.
Recounting the intimate discovery, Gabby shared the sweet details of how she realized she was pregnant. “We were in Texas visiting Cade’s side of his family. And it’s funny, because I did not think that I was. Around lunchtime, I remember taking the test and my eyes nearly crossed! I was like, ‘Wait, is that two lines?’” The surprise and disbelief in her voice were palpable. “I came running out to Cade and was just like, ‘Oh my gosh, I think I am.’ That’s all that I said, and he knew what that meant. I started crying, and it was very sweet.” This emotional revelation paints a picture of pure, unfiltered joy and tenderness, marking the beginning of their journey into parenthood. It was a moment of profound realization, shared privately between the two of them, before they were ready to announce it to the world.

Navigating Pregnancy Amidst a Global Pandemic
Being pregnant is a unique experience for any expecting parent, but welcoming a child amid the global COVID-19 pandemic has presented its own distinct set of challenges for Gabby and Cade. Gabby candidly spoke about the difficulties they’ve encountered, particularly concerning medical appointments. “I have to go to some appointments, unfortunately, without my husband, which is really sad,” Gabby admitted, highlighting the emotional strain of navigating crucial prenatal care solo. Many expectant mothers during this period have faced similar circumstances, underscoring the extraordinary times in which these new families are forming.
Despite the sadness, Gabby maintains a pragmatic and resilient outlook. “But I mean, if that’s what keeps the baby safe, then that’s what we’re going to do. We’ve just been trying to find ways to really work with it, because that’s all we can do at this point.” Her statement reflects the adaptive spirit many have adopted to ensure the health and safety of their families. They are committed to prioritizing their baby’s well-being above all else, adjusting their expectations and routines to align with necessary safety protocols. This period has undeniably added an extra layer of complexity and concern for first-time parents like Gabby and Cade, but their determination to welcome their daughter safely remains unwavering.
A Lifelong Dream: Gabby’s Aspiration for Motherhood
The news of Gabby’s pregnancy comes as no surprise to those who have followed her career and personal insights. In an exclusive interview with HollywoodLife back in March, just months before her pregnancy discovery, Gabby openly revealed her long-standing desire to start a family without delay. “I knew from a young age, I always definitely wanted to be a mom,” she told us, articulating a deep-seated aspiration that dates back to her childhood. This wasn’t merely a fleeting wish but a fundamental part of her life vision, consistently nurtured through her formative years.
She elaborated on her early inclinations towards motherhood, sharing, “I always loved playing with baby dolls and babysitting. I used to babysit all the time when I was in middle school and high school.” These anecdotes illustrate how motherhood was always a central theme in her life, a role she naturally gravitated towards. For Gabby, becoming a mother is not just another milestone but the realization of a cherished lifelong dream. Her journey from aspiring artist to country music star, and now to expectant mother, intertwines personal fulfillment with professional success in a beautiful and inspiring way. The congratulations extended to the happy couple for their growing family resonate deeply, celebrating the union of their love and the upcoming arrival of their precious baby girl.
The American Idol Love Story: From Stage to Spouses
Gabby Barrett and Cade Foehner’s love story is one that began under the bright lights of national television. Both rising talents, they met as contestants on Season 16 of American Idol in 2018. While neither won the competition, they found something arguably more valuable: a lifelong partner. Their chemistry was evident to viewers and judges alike, blossoming from a supportive friendship into a profound romantic connection. Their shared passion for music, undeniable talent, and grounded personalities created a strong foundation for their relationship, quickly endearing them to a wide audience. After the season concluded, their relationship continued to flourish away from the cameras, evolving from a budding romance into a serious commitment.
Cade proposed to Gabby in March 2019, and the couple wasted no time planning their future together. They tied the knot in a romantic ceremony in Garrison, Texas, in October 2019, surrounded by family and close friends. Their wedding was a testament to their deep love and commitment, sealing a bond that began on a television set and matured into a beautiful partnership. Less than a year later, they announced their first pregnancy, signifying a rapid but organic progression in their journey together. Their story serves as an inspiration, proving that sometimes, the greatest prizes aren’t the ones awarded on stage, but the personal connections forged along the way.
Gabby’s Soaring Career and Balancing New Beginnings
While Gabby Barrett prepares for motherhood, her professional career continues to reach new heights. Her breakthrough hit, “I Hope,” soared to the top of the country charts and crossed over into pop radio, making her one of country music’s most exciting new artists. The song, a powerful anthem of heartbreak and resilience, resonated with millions, solidifying her status as a formidable vocalist and songwriter. This remarkable success, achieved in such a short span, demonstrates her immense talent and dedication to her craft. The release of her debut album, “Goldmine,” further cemented her place in the industry, showcasing a versatile range and authentic storytelling.
Balancing a demanding music career with the imminent arrival of a baby is a challenge Gabby is ready to embrace. Her ability to navigate both realms with grace and determination is a testament to her strength. She has often spoken about her strong faith and the unwavering support she receives from Cade, which undoubtedly plays a crucial role in managing her busy life. This new chapter as a mother will undoubtedly bring new perspectives and inspirations to her music, potentially enriching her artistry even further. Fans eagerly anticipate how motherhood will influence her future work, as many artists find renewed creative energy from such profound life changes.
Cade Foehner: A Supportive Partner and Expectant Father
While much of the spotlight has been on Gabby’s pregnancy, Cade Foehner’s role as a supportive partner and excited expectant father is equally significant. Also a talented musician and American Idol alum, Cade has been a constant source of strength and encouragement for Gabby throughout their relationship and her burgeoning career. His unwavering presence, particularly during solo prenatal appointments, underscores his dedication to their growing family. Cade’s calm demeanor and strong character complement Gabby’s vibrant personality, creating a harmonious partnership.
As they prepare to welcome their daughter, Cade’s excitement is evident. He shares Gabby’s joy and anticipation, ready to embark on the adventure of fatherhood. Their decision to start a family so early in their marriage reflects their shared vision for the future and their profound commitment to building a life together. Cade’s support will be invaluable as Gabby balances her responsibilities as a new mother with her flourishing music career, making them a true team in every sense of the word. Their journey together, both personally and professionally, continues to inspire and charm fans worldwide.
Anticipation and Preparations for the Baby Girl
As early 2021 approaches, Gabby and Cade are undoubtedly immersing themselves in the joyful preparations for their baby girl’s arrival. The excitement of setting up a nursery, choosing a name, and envisioning their future as a family of three fills their days. Every decision, from tiny outfits to crib selection, becomes a cherished part of this special time. Despite the global circumstances, the couple remains focused on creating a loving and secure environment for their daughter. This period of anticipation is a precious time for any expectant parents, marked by dreams, hopes, and profound changes.
The journey from American Idol contestants to married couple and now to expectant parents has been a beautiful testament to Gabby and Cade’s enduring love and shared dreams. Their willingness to share these personal milestones with their fans has created an even deeper connection, allowing supporters to celebrate alongside them. As they await the arrival of their baby girl, the couple stands on the cusp of their most exciting adventure yet, ready to embrace the joys and challenges of parenthood. Their story continues to unfold, promising many more heartwarming moments to come.