Mississippi native and elementary school P.E. teacher Jamal Roberts has officially been crowned the Season 23 winner of American Idol, earning not only national acclaim but also securing his place in history. In the emotional May 18 finale, Roberts triumphed over strong competition from runner-ups John Foster and Breanna Nix, becoming the first Black man to win Idol since Ruben Studdard in 2003—22 years ago.
For his winner’s moment, Roberts delivered a soul-stirring performance of Anthony Hamilton’s “Her Heart,” surrounded by the season’s Top 14 contestants. The song’s emotional depth and Roberts’ signature blend of soul and sincerity were the perfect capstone to a season defined by his authenticity and vocal brilliance.
A Historic Win — and a Personal Milestone
The Idol crown wasn’t the only life-changing moment for Roberts this month. Just nine days before the finale, he and his family welcomed a new daughter, Gianna Grace, making him a proud father of three. In a heartwarming Instagram post on May 16, Roberts introduced Gianna to the world in a ladybug costume, writing:
“Hey world, meet my little ladybug, Gianna Grace Roberts. I’m so proud to be her father. #girldadforlife #idol.”
On the red carpet after his win, when asked what was next, Roberts didn’t hesitate:
“I’m going to see my daughter, Gianna. I’ve got a lot of making up to do.”
His other daughters, Harmoni and Lyrik, have been central to his journey as well. The two even joined him on stage for a special moment during the Top 8 round on April 27.
A Teacher at Heart, an Artist on the Rise
Roberts’ rise to fame hasn’t dimmed his passion for teaching. The 27-year-old, who taught physical education at an elementary school in Meridian, MS, says the kids have always been his inspiration:
“I wasn’t doing the teaching thing for the money. It was the kids. So even if I could go back every now and then—just show up and be a part of something—I plan to do that.”
Despite now entering the national spotlight, Roberts remains deeply grounded in his roots. He’s made clear he has no plans to leave Meridian, where he enjoys the simplicity of hometown life and where he feels the love of his community.
Idol History: More Than Just a Win
Roberts’ Idol journey was about more than his voice—it was about representation, resilience, and resonance. When told he was only the second Black man to win Idol, he was visibly surprised:
“I made history? That’s good to know. That’s really good to know.”
He also made Idol history in another way, garnering 26 million votes in the finale—the largest vote count in a finale in show history, as host Ryan Seacrest revealed.
A Message for the Dreamers
In a moving victory statement on Instagram, Roberts captured the heart of his journey:
“From my first step on that stage to this unbelievable moment, I never dreamed a kid from my hometown would one day be called American Idol.”
He continued:
“Most of all, I hope my girls see this and know that with faith, hard work, and heart, anything is possible. To my city, my family, and everyone out there grinding for something greater—this is our victory.”
With a newborn in his arms and a crown on his head, Jamal Roberts is entering a new chapter filled with possibility. Whether he’s back in the classroom or on stage bringing soul to the masses, one thing is clear: Jamal isn’t just American Idol’s latest champion—he’s a voice for dreamers everywhere.
