Jamal Roberts is still riding the wave of his monumental American Idol Season 23 victory—but the reality of winning hasn’t fully set in just yet.
“It feels like it didn’t happen,” the 27-year-old told Us Weekly on May 27. “It’s always been a dream and now it’s a reality. I’m like, ‘Do I keep dreaming?’ I’m definitely excited that America chose me.”
Crowned the winner on May 18, Roberts beat out runner-ups John Foster and Breanna Nix, closing out the season with a stunning performance of Tom Odell’s “Heal.” While he’s now officially America’s newest Idol, the champion revealed he still hasn’t received the promised $250,000 cash prize. “No, I haven’t received it. Don’t know where it is,” he said with a laugh, adding, “I’m interested in knowing.”
Still, when the prize does come through, Roberts plans to be practical. “I’m gonna put it in the bank,” he shared, with no plans for any flashy spending.
As part of his winnings, Roberts and Foster were also awarded a trip for four aboard the Disney Wish cruise, which includes luxury dining, Disney entertainment, and a visit to the private island Castaway Key. But even with those perks, it’s clear that the real prize for Roberts is the love and support of his daughters—Harmoni, Lyrik, and newborn Gianna.
“All they know is ‘Daddy win,’” he gushed. “They don’t really get the concept of what was going on. They just knew I was gone for a long time. And that I won.”
Roberts’ win has touched hearts across the country, not just for his voice, but for the man behind the music. A devoted father and former P.E. teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, he’s kept things humble in the days following his big moment.
Instead of throwing a lavish celebration, Roberts marked the occasion with a quiet family moment: a hot fish sandwich and some well-deserved time with his kids. “I took them to the house so we could spend time with each other,” he said.
Though he’s headed back on the road soon—he’s scheduled to appear at CMA Fest in Nashville next month—right now Roberts is soaking up every minute of fatherhood. “They have my whole heart,” he said about his girls, the youngest of whom is just three weeks old.
With humility, heart, and a voice that won over millions, Jamal Roberts is stepping into his next chapter—not just as an American Idol, but as an artist and a proud dad making every dream count.
