From stress in rehearsals to stunning praise on stage, the Mississippi powerhouse proves once again why he belongs in the finale.
In one of the most emotionally revealing moments of American Idol Season 23, finalist Jamal Roberts faced what he called “the biggest challenge of the season”—and then turned it into one of his most talked-about performances yet.
During Monday night’s Disney-themed episode, Roberts performed two iconic songs: “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and the theme from “Beauty and the Beast.” While the first brought the crowd to their feet, it was the second that showcased Roberts’ transformative artistry—and his ability to overcome self-doubt in real time.
A Rocky Start Behind the Scenes
During rehearsals with guest mentor Lin-Manuel Miranda, Roberts admitted he was struggling.
“I’m worried, I’m stressed,” he said. “I’m not saying I can’t do it, but it probably will be one of the biggest challenges of the season for me.”
Miranda, quick to praise Roberts’ gospel-infused R&B tone, sensed the disconnect:
“He looked terrified of this song,” Miranda said. “I just saw him reading the lyrics, and I don’t think he connects with this song.”
Despite the tension in rehearsals, Roberts stepped on stage with grace, confidence, and soulful precision, flipping the classic ballad into a modern, R&B slow jam—something few would dare attempt.
Judges Stunned by the Transformation
Any nerves Roberts may have felt were nowhere in sight when the cameras rolled. Judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie were floored.
“Jamal, let’s win this thing baby!” Bryan shouted, energized by the performance.
Richie was in awe: “How do you make Beauty and the Beast an R&B song?” he asked, calling it a “magical twist” that only Roberts could pull off.
The performance marked a redemptive moment, especially in the wake of previous episodes where Roberts had received inconsistent critiques from the judging panel—most notably from Carrie Underwood, whose silence after this particular song did not go unnoticed by fans.
Headed to the Finale
In the end, Roberts’ risk paid off. The night concluded with the announcement that he, John Foster, and Breanna Nix would move on to the Season 23 finale this Sunday, May 18. Contestants Slater Nalley and Thunderstorm Artis were eliminated.
As Idol inches closer to crowning a new winner, Jamal Roberts continues to stand out—not just for his voice, but for his resilience, honesty, and ability to turn even the most unlikely song into a spiritual, soulful celebration.
Tune in Sunday at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC (and streaming the next day on Hulu) to see if Jamal Roberts’ journey ends with a confetti-filled win.
