One of the most unforgettable moments at the 2025 BET Awards came at the very end — and it wasn’t just a performance. It was a full-blown spiritual revival led by gospel legend Kirk Franklin and American Idol Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts.
The live broadcast, which aired June 9, closed with a soul-shaking, heart-lifting gospel medley that brought the crowd to its feet and left fans at home stunned. With powerhouse contributions from Tamar Braxton, Muni Long, and a choir of gospel greats, the set was a joyful explosion of faith and fire — and Roberts stood out with commanding presence and radiant vocals.
“There was no better way to close out the BET Awards than this,” one fan raved. “It felt like church and celebration all at once.”
From Classroom to Center Stage
It’s hard to believe that just a few months ago, Roberts was teaching P.E. in Mississippi. Since winning American Idol in May, the 29-year-old has gone from local favorite to national treasure, captivating audiences with his humble spirit, undeniable talent, and gospel roots.
On the BET Awards stage, he proved he belongs among gospel royalty. As Franklin directed the ensemble with signature energy and soul, Roberts matched him beat for beat, verse for verse — his voice reverberating with conviction, depth, and purpose.
The Performance Everyone’s Talking About
With Braxton delivering rich harmonies, Muni Long adding smooth, sultry tones, and the entire cast radiating unity, the finale wasn’t just musically excellent — it was emotionally transcendent.
“That BET gospel medley with Jamal Roberts? GRAMMY-WORTHY,” one viewer posted. “Somebody put this on an album. Now.”
The internet erupted with praise, many fans already demanding a full gospel record from Roberts — possibly even a collaboration with Franklin himself, which has been teased in interviews.
A BET Awards Weekend to Remember
The gospel finale was just one of many standout moments for Roberts during BET weekend. On Saturday, he turned heads at the BET 45th Anniversary Dinner, dressed in an all-white vest ensemble that screamed elegance and confidence. The next day, he lit up The NeNe Leakes Show, serenading the reality star with a passionate cover of Joe’s “All The Things (Your Man Won’t Do)” — a moment that went viral within hours.
He also made waves at the BET Media House in West Hollywood, rocking a bold floral shirt, burgundy suspenders, and his now-iconic smile — proving that his style game is just as strong as his voice.
“No gimmicks, no games,” Roberts wrote on Instagram. “Just me walking in ordered steps.”
What’s Next?
With a major-label debut album, Cowboy Confessions, in the works and a growing list of high-profile fans and collaborators, Jamal Roberts is just getting started.
The final words of one fan may sum it up best:
“Enjoy this moment, Jamal — it’s only the beginning.”
