After months of jaw-dropping auditions, unforgettable showstoppers, and nail-biting live performances, the moment fans have been waiting for finally arrived: on May 18, American Idol Season 23 crowned its winner!
The epic finale saw the last three contenders—pop-country powerhouse Breanna Nix, soulful R&B sensation Jamal Roberts, and young country star John Foster—go head-to-head in a thrilling three-hour showdown. After America’s live coast-to-coast vote, it was Jamal Roberts who took home the coveted crown, with John Foster earning a proud runner-up spot and Breanna Nix placing third.
Jamal’s win marks a historic milestone—he’s the second Black man ever to win American Idol, joining Season 2 champ Ruben Studdard from way back in 2003. Over the years, four talented Black women have also triumphed: Fantasia Barrino, Jordin Sparks, Candice Glover, and Just Sam.
Speaking to Gold Derby on the red carpet, the 27-year-old Mississippi native was glowing. “I’m anointed. I know how to use it. I know how to tap in,” Jamal said. And after the confetti settled, he joyfully dropped to the stage floor and made a snow angel—his very first in real snow! “That moment will stay with me forever,” he shared.
Overwhelmed yet grateful, Jamal revealed, “It still hasn’t really sunk in.” His plans? Jumping straight into the studio to craft an inspirational soul album—but he’s staying rooted in Meridian, Mississippi. “I love my city,” he said with a smile. “No traffic, no waiting in line. I love my life!” Reflecting on his hometown send-off before the finale, Jamal said, “I knew I was loved—but seeing that many people out there for me? That shocked me.”
Legendary judge Carrie Underwood, who is still deciding if she’ll return for Season 24, reflected on the season’s talent. “The Top 10 were just insane,” she told Gold Derby. “Every contestant had their moment and seized it. You won’t find this level of talent anywhere else.” Carrie also got emotional watching the hometown visits: “Growing up in a small town, I know what it means to see that kind of support. It was incredibly touching.”
When asked if she would change anything for next season, Carrie joked, “If I come back, I’m making sure nobody cheats on ‘Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Night.’ I wanna rock!”
Showrunner Megan Wolflick called Jamal’s win a throwback to classic Idol finales. “It felt like Ruben vs. Clay all over again,” she said. But she notes that Season 23 wasn’t the “countriest season ever,” praising the diverse, multi-genre talent. For the biggest country vibe, she points to Season 10, when Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina battled it out.
The finale wasn’t just about the top three—America’s favorite Top 14 stars also lit up the stage alongside A-list legends like Brandon Lake, Goo Goo Dolls, Jennifer Holliday, Kirk Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Salt-N-Pepa, and Cody Johnson.
Host Ryan Seacrest kept the tradition alive, announcing the winner at the end of a spectacular night. Judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie joined forces for a heartfelt rendition of “Stuck on You,” while mentor Jelly Roll and Jamal performed hits like “Unpretty” and “Liar.”
Here’s a quick look at the finalists:
- Jamal Roberts, 27, a father and P.E. teacher from Meridian, MS, captivated with performances of “Tennessee Whiskey,” “Liar,” “Try a Little Tenderness,” “Heal,” “A Change Is Gonna Come,” and more. His original single? The soulful “Heal.”
- John Foster, just 18 from Addis, Louisiana, melted hearts with country classics like “In Color,” “Callin’ Baton Rouge,” “Neon Moon,” “I Cross My Heart,” and even a surprise “Rainbow Connection.” His original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” showed off his heartfelt style.
- Breanna Nix, 25, a mother and health coach from Denton, Texas, wowed with powerhouse vocals on “The Trouble With Love Is,” “Up to the Mountain,” “Open Arms,” “Independence Day,” “Reflection,” and more. Her original pop-country track? “Higher.”
Before the finale, Gold Derby had John Foster as the favorite to win with 2/3 odds, followed by Jamal at 2/1, and Breanna at 14/1—proving once again that anything can happen on American Idol.
Jamal now joins an iconic lineup of 22 American Idol winners, including legends like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Scotty McCreery, and the latest stars Noah Thompson and Iam Tongi.
What do you think of this epic Season 23 finale? Are you thrilled with Jamal’s historic win? Can you see John Foster and Breanna Nix rising even higher? Drop your thoughts in the comments or join the conversation on our reality TV forum!
