Jamal Roberts Crowned American Idol 2025 Winner
Last night’s American Idol Season 23 finale was nothing short of a rollercoaster, and guess who walked away with the crown? Jamal Roberts, the 27-year-old Mississippi gym teacher-turned-soul-singer, beat out fan favorites John Foster and Breanna Nix to become your American Idol 2025 winner!
From P.E. Class to Prime Time!
Yep, you read that right. Just a few months ago, Jamal was teaching P.E. in Meridian, Mississippi—and now he’s a chart-topping star with 26 million votes backing him up! Not to mention, he made Idol history by becoming the first Black male winner since Ruben Studdard in 2003. Talk about a full-circle moment!
The Finale: Star-Studded & Shocking
The finale on May 18 was jam-packed with A-lister guest performances and emotional showdowns. The Top 14 contestants lit up the stage, singing alongside icons like Salt-N-Pepa, Jessica Simpson, and even Good Charlotte. (Yes, 2000s kids were screaming.)
- Jamal teamed up with “artist in residence” Jelly Roll for a powerhouse duet.
- John Foster had a bro-country moment with judge Luke Bryan.
- Breanna Nix gave us chills singing with worship artist Brandon Lake.
But the biggest drama? Breanna was eliminated mid-show, leaving Jamal and John in a nail-biting final faceoff.
That Winner Reveal, Though…
When Ryan Seacrest opened the card with Jamal’s name on it, the studio erupted. Lionel Richie literally said he “damn near died.” Carrie Underwood looked like she had flashbacks to her own win two decades ago. It was that intense.
Jamal’s final solo? A swoon-worthy version of Anthony Hamilton’s “Her Heart”, surrounded by the Top 14 contestants in full celebration mode.
Baby News and Big Dreams
Hold on—it gets cuter. Right after his win, Jamal told press he was most excited to get back home and see his 9-day-old baby girl, Gianna. 🍼
And while music is now the main gig, Jamal says he’ll never completely leave teaching behind. “It was never about the money. The kids are my inspiration,” he said. (Our hearts!)
The Judges’ Tea: Will They Return?
ICYMI, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie made up the judge panel this season—but will they return for Idol 2026?
Carrie says it’s up in the air: “You never know where the good Lord’s going to take me.”
- Luke’s still in limbo: “We haven’t started talks yet.”
- Lionel? He’s just glad he survived the suspense.
Meanwhile, Season 24 is already in the works with submissions pouring in. One thing’s for sure—Idol still knows how to deliver a grand finale.
What Went Down in Season 23
- Over 144 contestants made it to Hollywood Week.
- The Top 5 were: Jamal Roberts, John Foster, Breanna Nix, Slater Nalley, and Thunderstorm Artis.
- Last year’s winner, Abi Carter, is now slaying the charts with her debut album Ghosts in the Backyard.
What’s Next for Jamal Roberts?
Only time will tell, but if his Idol run is any sign, we’re looking at the next big soul superstar. From gym floors to Grammy dreams—Jamal’s story is just getting started.
Stay tuned for more Idol gossip, behind-the-scenes drama, and updates on your favorite finalists.
