Two weeks after American Idol crowned its Season 23 winner, fans were treated to a joyful reunion between three of the show’s breakout stars—winner Jamal Roberts and finalists Gabby Samone and Kolbi Jordan. The trio, known for their on-screen chemistry and genuine bond, linked up in Nashville ahead of the 19/BMG Takeover concert and shared a lighthearted Facebook Live from a nail salon that quickly went viral.
Broadcast on the evening of June 3, Jamal’s live stream ran nearly an hour and drew thousands of real-time viewers, with more than 14,000 comments pouring in from fans thrilled to see their favorite finalists back together. From inside the buzzing salon, Roberts cracked jokes about needing “a little TLC” for his feet, quipping, “I’ve been running for Jesus a long time!” as Gabby and Kolbi laughed beside him.
Despite their different hometowns—Baltimore (Samone), Tulsa (Jordan), and Meridian, Mississippi (Roberts)—the three artists formed a close-knit friendship during their Idol journey. Their banter flowed easily, teasing each other between songs playing on the radio, recalling backstage memories, and turning the camera on Kolbi as she squirmed through her pedicure. “Look at her, she can’t even sit still,” Roberts chuckled, panning to Jordan mid-laugh.
Fans couldn’t get enough. One viewer wrote, “I love how no one was bitter and y’all stayed friends,” while another chimed in with, “Y’all friends for life 💖.” Dozens more begged for a reality show featuring the trio, calling their vibe “real,” “refreshing,” and “so needed.”
Their reunion wasn’t just for laughs—it was part of a larger celebration. On June 4, the trio would share the stage again at the 19/BMG Takeover concert in Nashville, a free showcase held on the eve of CMA Fest. It featured a lineup of recent Idol alumni, including runner-up John Foster, third-place Breanna Nix, and fan favorites Thunderstorm Artis, Mattie Pruitt, Wé Ani, HunterGirl, and more.
Noticeably absent was 18-year-old Slater Nalley, another top-five finisher from the season, who recently signed with a different management agency—potentially the reason for his nonappearance. Still, the reunion concert felt like a family gathering for both the singers and the fans who had followed their journeys.
For Roberts, Samone, and Jordan, the nail salon moment was more than just content—it was a glimpse into the real friendships formed behind the scenes. In a competition known for its high stakes and emotional intensity, the trio reminded fans of the joy, love, and laughter that can rise from it all.
