After months of competition, emotional performances, and dreams taking flight, American Idol Season 23 crowned its winner on May 18, 2025 — and it was a moment for the history books. With over 26 million votes cast during the live three-hour finale, it was the highest voter turnout in Idol finale history.
The final three — Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix — brought heart, soul, and powerful performances to the stage one last time. While each contestant had a unique story and sound, it was Jamal Roberts, a 27-year-old physical education teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, who took home the crown.
“HOWWWW is this even real?!?!” – Jamal Roberts Reacts to His Win
Immediately following the live broadcast, Roberts took to social media in disbelief:
“HOWWWW is this even real?!?! 😭😭😭 I never could’ve imagined this when I first stepped on that stage… I’m your next American Idol. 🙏🏾🎤”
He continued in a heartfelt message, emphasizing what the win means to him as a father and role model:
“To be a role model for my girls, my city, and anybody out there chasing something bigger — this means everything. Now I get to do what I love, with the best in the game, and share my voice with the world.”
In a follow-up post featuring a photo of him singing after his win, he added:
“I’m still trying to process this… God is so good. 🙏🏾 From my first step on that stage to this unbelievable moment, I never dreamed a kid from my hometown would one day be called American Idol.”
Roberts dedicated the win to his three daughters — Harmoni (6), Lyrik (4), and newborn Gianna — saying he hopes they’ll see “that with faith, hard work, and heart, anything is possible.”
John Foster: “A True Blessing” to Reach the Finale
Runner-up John Foster, an 18-year-old country singer and biology freshman at LSU, shared a gracious message with fans after the show:
“Man, what a true blessing to share this Idol stage with so many incredible heroes, both new faces and legends… I’m beyond thankful, and I can’t wait to keep making music for y’all as long as the good Lord lets me.”
Foster was a fan favorite throughout the season, praised for his vocal maturity and humble Southern charm. His final performance, an emotional original song titled “Tell That Angel I Love Her” (dedicated to his late friend Maggie Dunn), left viewers and judges alike in tears.
Breanna Nix: “You’ve Changed My Life”
Third-place finalist Breanna Nix, a 25-year-old mom from Denton, Texas, learned her result midway through the show but returned to the stage later that night to perform with Contemporary Christian artist Brandon Lake.
She wrote:
“I don’t even know where to begin… Nix Nation – thank you from the bottom of my heart to every single one of you who’s supported me throughout this experience… This is just the beginning. You’ve changed my life. 💙 #idol #NixNation”
Nix’s blend of powerhouse vocals and authenticity made her one of the most beloved contestants of the season.
The Judges React: Champagne, Confetti, and Celebrations
Judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie celebrated alongside the contestants after the finale ended. Bryan and Richie, who have judged together for eight seasons, posted backstage videos in awe of the night and the overwhelming number of votes.
“We just wrapped,” Bryan shouted, champagne in hand, with Richie nodding in amazement. “What an amazing night,” Richie added.
Bryan, clearly moved by Roberts’ victory, told him on air:
“You’re one of the most amazing people I’ve seen on this show.”
Underwood, in her first season as a judge, also posted a photo with Jamal, writing:
“Congratulations to the newest winner of @americanidol!!! I’m so proud of @officialjamalroberts… He’s going to do great things!”
What’s Next for the Finalists?
With a record deal, national recognition, and an Idol title now under his belt, Jamal Roberts steps into the spotlight — not only as a singer but as a symbol of resilience, fatherhood, and faith.
John Foster returns to Louisiana with a devoted fan base and likely a music career ahead. As for Breanna Nix, her journey is just beginning, with fans eagerly awaiting new music from her.
Together, the top three made American Idol Season 23 one of the most diverse, emotional, and inspiring in the show’s history.
