Jamal Roberts Wins Season 23 of American Idol — But All Eyes Are on Runner-Up John Foster
Season 23 of American Idol hit its final high note on Sunday, May 18, 2025, as Mississippi’s own Jamal Roberts was crowned the newest champion of the long-running talent show. With his soulful performances and unstoppable momentum, Jamal joined the legendary ranks of past Idol greats like Ruben Studdard, Fantasia, and Jordin Sparks.
But while Jamal took home the trophy, it was country standout John Foster who had fans buzzing—onstage and online.
Is John Foster Signed to a Record Label?
The short answer: nope.
Despite swirling rumors, John Foster hasn’t inked a deal with any label—at least, not yet. The Louisiana-born country singer wowed viewers every week with heartfelt renditions of classics like Randy Travis’s “I Told You So.” But behind the scenes, some fans speculated that he’d already been “discovered,” claiming ties to country music royalty and secret contracts.
In a heartfelt Facebook post from April 2025, John set the record straight once and for all.
“I’m not related to Dwight Yoakam,” he wrote, addressing widespread fan theories. “Nor am I currently signed under any record label—there was some misinformation that Dwight Yoakam signed me under Sugar Hill Records.”
Clearing the Air: Age, Hometown, and Fake News
John didn’t stop there. Taking a moment to connect directly with his supporters, he revealed more personal truths that had been lost in the rumor mill. For starters, he’s not in his mid-twenties as some had guessed.
“I am 18 years old (not 24),” he clarified. “For the sake of all of my family (followers) getting to know me better, I’d like to clear up some misinformation that has been spreading on Facebook.”
Another false narrative? His hometown. While many believed he hailed from Kentucky—possibly because of his deep country roots—John put that one to bed, too.
“I was born and raised in Addis, Louisiana,” he wrote. “I’m not from Benton, KY—I’ve never even been to Kentucky, but I hope to visit someday!”
With fame comes fakery, and John took the opportunity to caution fans about fake profiles and misinformation circulating online.
“If you see something about me that’s not from my page (with the blue checkmark), there’s a chance that it may not be true!” he warned. “If you have any questions about me, try commenting under this post—either I or someone close to me will answer. God bless!”
What’s Next for John Foster?
While he may not have clinched the Idol title, John Foster walks away with something just as valuable—a massive fanbase and a bright future ahead. With the kind of authenticity, humility, and raw talent he’s shown, don’t be surprised if a record label does come knocking very soon.
For now, fans can keep up with John on his official (blue-check!) social media accounts. And who knows? Maybe Kentucky will be on his tour list before long.
