Former ‘American Idol’ Contestant Jason Castro Expecting First Child

Congratulations are in order for former 'American Idol' runner-up Jason Castro -- the dreadlock-sporting singer announced that he and his wife are expecting their first child, a girl, this fall.

"I am excited to announce that there will be a new addition to the Castro family! My wife and I are expecting our first child this August," Castro posted on his official website. In a sweet note, he adds that he and his lady, Mandy Mayhall, just recently learned their little one's sex. "We just found out yesterday that it is going to be a girl! haha that makes me laugh ... What am I going to do with a sweet little girl?! Probably just smile a lot ... I cannot wait!!!"

Castro was ranked No. 4 when he was booted off of 'Idol' back in Season 7, but that didn't seem to slow down his career any. The 24-year-old Texas native dropped his debut self-titled album a year ago this Tuesday, which features his Atlantic Records peer Serena Ryder and input from 'Idol''s Kara DioGuardi and producer John Fields.

Since then, he's been touring as a Christian artist, but says he's eager to strap on his nightclub boots again. "I know that there have been some of you wondering if I was going to start just playing at churches or if I will still be doing club shows and the answer is YES!" Castro says. "Since I started playing music I always was of the mindset that I would play wherever they would have me! haha and I'm so thankful that churches have been opening their doors to me and I am so excited to be a part of their ministries but I am also looking forward to playing at some of your favorite concert venues!"

He adds, "Keep checking back here for tour dates." Stay tuned to PopCrush for more from Jason Castro as info is available!