A recent episode of American Idol Season 23 was a very special night for Jamal Roberts. Not only did he deliver a powerful performance, but he also shared some big personal news—he had just become a dad for the third time.
Jamal, who’s from Meridian, Mississippi, talked about how much support he’s received from his hometown and his two young daughters, Harmoni and Lyrik. “Where I am in this competition right now, it’s love that’s lifting me up—the love from my hometown and my kids,” he said.
On stage, Jamal played a fun game called “Two Truths and a Lie.” He told the audience he was a master at playing the flute, could swim underwater but not on top, and that he had just had a new baby. The truth? The baby news was real! Jamal and his partner had welcomed their third child—a beautiful baby girl named Gianna Grace Adams.
“It was so personal to me that I didn’t share it right away,” Jamal said, getting emotional. “But yes, I have a healthy, beautiful baby girl who was born today.”
That night also included the yearly Judge’s Song Contest. Jamal sang “I Believe” by Fantasia, a song suggested by Lionel Richie. He said the song meant a lot to him, reflecting his life as a dad, a teacher, and someone chasing his dreams with love. His heartfelt performance earned standing ovations, and even the judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan were moved to tears.
Luke joked, “I’m leaking oil and have a flat tire. I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone connect their heart, mind, voice, and feelings like you do.”
Now, Jamal is one of the Top 3 finalists on American Idol Season 23, alongside Breanna Nix and John Foster.
Hometown Celebrations Before the Finale
Before the big finale on Sunday, May 18, the Top 3 finalists are heading back home for special celebrations, and fans are invited to join in the fun.
For Jamal, that means returning to Meridian, Mississippi. His hometown celebration starts with a parade lineup at 4:00 p.m. at the Lauderdale County Courthouse. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends at City Hall, where Jamal will perform a special concert at 7:00 p.m.
John Foster will celebrate in Addis, Louisiana, with a parade at 5:00 p.m. on First Street, followed by a concert at 7:30 p.m. at Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park. Breanna Nix will return to Denton, Texas, for a meet-and-greet at Beth Marie’s, a parade at 4:30 p.m. on McKinney Street, and a concert at 7:00 p.m. near the Discover Denton Visitor Center.
The American Idol Season 23 finale will feature the final performances from the Top 3, with special guest appearances by stars like Patti LaBelle, Jessica Simpson, and Good Charlotte. America will vote live, and the winner will be announced at the end of the show.
