Jamal Roberts is still trying to process the whirlwind that has been his journey on American Idol. Just days after being crowned the Season 23 winner, the 27-year-old Mississippi native admitted in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly that the reality of his win hasn’t fully sunk in. “I say to myself every day, like, ‘Did I just win American Idol?’” he said. “It’s always [been] a dream and now it’s a reality.”
Roberts emerged victorious in a season finale that saw him competing against finalists Breanna Nix and John Foster. His performances throughout the night were memorable, but it was a standout duet with genre-blurring artist Jelly Roll that brought the house down. Together, the two delivered powerful renditions of “Liar” and TLC’s “Unpretty,” earning praise for their emotional resonance and authenticity. Roberts spoke highly of the collaboration, describing Jelly Roll as “authentic and real” and revealing that the artist encouraged contestants to stay true to themselves and create music that moves people.
Despite the post-show media circuit, which included a stop at Good Morning America in New York City, Roberts was eager to get back to his roots. Once the lights dimmed and the cameras turned off, he flew straight back to Meridian, Mississippi, to resume his most important role: being a dad. The father of three daughters—Harmoni, Lyrik, and Gianna—said he couldn’t wait to return home to them. “I was ready to get to my house and get into bed and get my kids,” he said. Though his daughters are still too young to fully grasp what their father has accomplished, their reaction was heart-melting in its simplicity. “All they say is, ‘Daddy win?’ I was like, ‘Yeah, daddy won, baby.’”
Roberts has also been receiving advice from some major voices in the music world, including American Idol alum Fantasia Barrino. The Season 3 winner advised him to “stay true to yourself,” a mantra Roberts says he plans to hold onto as he navigates the next chapter of his life and career. He even shared that if the opportunity arises, he’d love to perform with Fantasia one day.
Looking ahead, Roberts is excited to launch his music career, especially in the soul and gospel spaces where his passion lies. That said, he’s keeping an open mind about exploring other genres. “I still feel like I can do any genre. I just don’t want to put myself in a box right now, if that makes sense,” he explained.
And as for the much-talked-about prize money? He hasn’t seen it yet. “Don’t know where it is. I’m interested in knowing,” he joked about the $250,000 award. But he’s not planning to make any extravagant purchases once it does arrive. Instead, his goal is financial stability. “I’m gonna put it in the bank,” he said simply.
From P.E. teacher and devoted father to national singing sensation, Jamal Roberts is embracing the moment with humility, grace, and a clear vision for the future. His voice, his story, and his grounded approach have not only made him an American Idol champion—they’ve made him someone fans can root for long after the final note fades.
