A week after being crowned American Idol Season 23 champion, Jamal Roberts is still trying to wrap his head around the moment that changed his life.
“I say to myself every day, like, ‘Did I just win American Idol?’” the 27-year-old singer told Us Weekly. “It’s always been a dream — now it’s a reality.”
Roberts triumphed in a powerhouse finale on May 18, going head-to-head with finalists Breanna Nix and John Foster. From emotional ballads to a standout duet with Jelly Roll, his performances sealed the win and captured the hearts of America.
From the Stage to Dad Duty
After a whirlwind trip to Good Morning America in New York, Roberts went straight back to Mississippi — and straight back to dad life with his daughters Harmoni, Lyrik, and Gianna.
“I was ready to get to my house, get in my bed, and get my kids,” he said. “I was just ready to go be a dad at this point.”
Though his daughters are too young to fully grasp what just happened, they understand one thing: “Daddy won.”
“All they say is, ‘Daddy win?’ And I’m like, ‘Yeah, baby, Daddy won,’” Roberts said, laughing.
A Jelly Roll Connection
One of the most talked-about moments of the finale was his powerful duet with Jelly Roll. They performed “Liar” and “Unpretty,” creating a raw, unforgettable set that fans are still buzzing about.
“He’s so real,” Roberts said of the country star. “He told us, ‘Be authentic and make music that feels good.’ That’s stuck with me.”
A Word From Fantasia
Another Idol alum, Season 3 winner Fantasia Barrino, also offered Jamal a few words of wisdom.
“She told me, ‘Stay true to yourself,’” he said. “She’s someone I’d love to duet with if I get the chance.”
Fantasia, who served as a guest mentor, was visibly moved by Roberts’ performance of “Heal,” saying he “loses himself in the music.”
Genre-Bending Goals
While Roberts’ roots are deep in gospel and soul, don’t expect him to stay in one lane.
“I don’t want to put myself in a box,” he said. “I wanna do it all — gospel, R&B, even pop if it feels right.”
His winning single “Heal” already hit No. 1, and his gospel track “He’s Preparing Me” is climbing the charts, proving his range is resonating across audiences.
Prize Money Plans? Keep It Simple.
Roberts is still waiting for his $250,000 prize to hit his account.
“I don’t know where it is,” he joked. “I’m interested in knowing!”
But fans shouldn’t expect any flashy purchases: “No big splurges. I’m gonna put it in the bank.”
