American Idol Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts, his journey, performances, and future plans.

American Idol Season 23 Winner: Jamal Roberts Crowned Champion — A Complete Journey

American Idol Season 23 has finally wrapped up with an unforgettable finale that saw Jamal Roberts, a 27-year-old gym teacher from Mississippi, crowned as the new champion. This season’s finale broke records, with over 26 million votes cast by fans worldwide — the highest ever for any American Idol finale.

In this blog, we’ll take you through Jamal’s incredible journey, the performances that won hearts, the runner-ups, and what the future holds for this talented new star. We’ll also answer some common questions about the show and Jamal’s victory, so stay tuned!

The Grand Finale: A Night to Remember

The grand finale of American Idol Season 23 aired on Sunday, May 18, 2025, showcasing the top three finalists performing their best songs yet. The finalists were:

• Jamal Roberts — 27, gym teacher from Mississippi
• John Foster — 18, college student from Louisiana
• Breanna Nix — 25, stay-at-home mom from Texas

Each finalist performed a song picked by the season’s “Artist in Residence,” the popular musician Jelly Roll. Jamal’s emotionally charged rendition of "First Time" by Teeks brought Jelly Roll to tears, marking a highlight of the night. Jamal then closed the show with "Her Heart" by Anthony Hamilton, which left the judges and audience in awe.

Meet Jamal Roberts: The Champion

Jamal Roberts entered the competition with a soulful voice and humble charm. Originally a gym teacher in Mississippi, Jamal's audition stunned the judges with his heartfelt performance of "Mary Jane" by Rick James. His natural storytelling ability and powerful vocals quickly made him a fan favorite.

Judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood consistently praised Jamal for his authenticity and emotional depth, which set him apart from other contestants.

Journey Through the Competition

Jamal’s journey was not without challenges. Week after week, he proved his versatility by tackling different genres, from classic soul to modern pop. His performances connected deeply with viewers, who admired his genuine passion for music.

At every stage, Jamal showed growth, both vocally and as a performer. His heartfelt delivery and unique tone made him stand out during group rounds, duets, and solo performances.

The Runner-Ups: John Foster and Breanna Nix

While Jamal took the crown, John Foster and Breanna Nix also delivered stellar performances throughout the season.

• John Foster is an 18-year-old college student from Louisiana whose youthful energy and vocal range earned him the runner-up spot. His performances displayed impressive control and versatility.
• Breanna Nix, a 25-year-old stay-at-home mom from Texas, impressed with her emotive singing and powerful stage presence. She secured third place in a highly competitive season.

What Makes Jamal Roberts Stand Out?

Jamal's charm lies in his authenticity. Unlike many contestants who focus on flashy performances, Jamal connects with the audience through raw emotion and heartfelt storytelling. His voice carries a soulful warmth that resonates deeply.

Moreover, his background as a gym teacher makes his story relatable — proving that passion and talent can shine through from any walk of life.

Audience Reaction & Voting Records

The Season 23 finale shattered previous voting records, with a whopping 26 million votes cast worldwide. Fans rallied behind Jamal, captivated by his journey and humble nature. Social media buzzed with support, trending hashtags, and viral clips of his performances.

This enthusiastic response cements Jamal’s popularity and sets high expectations for his future career.

The Judges’ Perspective

The judges — Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood — unanimously applauded Jamal’s win. Carrie Underwood described Jamal as "a rare talent with an incredible story," while Lionel Richie praised his "heartfelt performances that brought tears to many eyes."

Luke Bryan highlighted Jamal’s consistency and growth, stating, "He’s earned this win every step of the way."

What’s Next for Jamal Roberts?

Winning American Idol is a life