American Idol crowns Jamal Roberts as winner of season 23: Know who is he, his journey and grand prize he won

Time of India

19-05-2025

Source: Instagram
After weeks of stirring performances and highly charged moments, American Idol has finally crowned its Season 23 winner. On the evening of May 18, the crown was given to
Jamal Roberts
, a physical education teacher from Meridian, Mississippi.
Roberts won the series finale against fellow finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix, who finished second and third, respectively.
The news was delivered by veteran host Ryan Seacrest in one of the most emotional moments of the season. However, Jamal's win is about so much more than singing ability. It is a testament to determination, core values, and a quest to make a difference.
Jamal Roberts wins
American Idol 2025 season 23
American Idol 2025 has named its season 23 winner, Jamal Roberts.
Familiar for his rich vocals and compelling background, Roberts had audiences spellbound throughout the season. From Meridian, Mississippi, his path not only demonstrated his ability but his commitment to family, community, and having a positive influence. Prior to his American Idol experience, Roberts had already seen the competitive landscape of television performance.
He already made it to the Top 3 on BET's Sunday Best, a gospel music show that prepared him with the grit he would need on the larger national stage.
"Sunday Best taught me to persevere when the heat is on," Roberts revealed in a backstage interview. "It gave me tough skin, and that was a real prep for Idol."
That preparation served her well over the course of the season, as Roberts consistently delivered emotionally powerful performances that both impressed the judges and won the hearts of the public.
2025 American Idol winner Jamal Roberts' journey
Roberts' attachment to his hometown of Meridian, Mississippi was a constant theme during his American Idol experience.
When he auditioned for the first time, he openly discussed the issues in his community, such as crime and economic struggle. But instead of focusing on hardship, he decided to be a hope provider.
"This is where I grew up," he said. "It can be a whole lot better than it is. So, I'm praying that I can bring a little light to it."
That spotlight, Roberts feels, starts in the house. A devoted father to three daughters—Harmoni, Lyrik, and Gianna—his drive to succeed was as much personal as it was professional.
His youngest daughter, Gianna, was born a few days before a live show taping in Los Angeles. While the emotional sacrifice of being apart from his family was significant, their encouragement remained his push. They've been with me through it all," he said.
"I drew strength from seeing their faces in the crowd every time I went on stage."
Jamal Roberts' story and music touch hearts across the country
What distinguishes Jamal Roberts is not merely his voice talent—it's the message in the music.
As a schoolteacher, father, and community leader, Roberts represents a new breed of artist: one who harnesses their platform for the purpose of inspiring others and sparking useful conversation.
During the competition, his narrative struck a chord across the country. He was not only a performer to audiences, but a man who was genuinely passionate about his principles—someone capable of reconciling ambition and humility.
"Jamal is the type of artist the world needs today," one judge said during the final. "His voice speaks to the heart, but his story speaks to life."
With Season 23 of American Idol now over, fans are looking to see what the future holds for Roberts. His victory paves the way for recording contracts, national tours, and other music industry opportunities. However, Roberts stays true to himself. "I want to use this moment to show my students and my daughters that dreams really can come true," he said.
"But it takes faith, work, and a whole lot of heart."
American Idol 2025 winner prize money
National fame is not all that Roberts will gain, however. In addition to his newfound celebrity status, he will also get a cash prize of $125,000, according to the reports. Though the money is a big incentive, it's apparent that to Jamal Roberts, the real reward is the potential to influence and touch lives.
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