After months of fierce competition, emotional performances, and a record-breaking 26 million votes, Jamal Roberts, a 27-year-old gym teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, has claimed the title of American Idol Season 23 champion. Roberts emerged as the winner during the grand finale aired on Sunday, May 18, 2025.
His victory marks a major milestone in the show’s history as he becomes the first Black male to win American Idol since Ruben Studdard took the crown in 2003, 22 years ago. Roberts beat out finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix, who finished second and third respectively.
Who is Jamal Roberts?
Jamal Roberts is a full-time gym teacher, a father of three daughters, and a man driven by faith and purpose. Before stepping onto the American Idol stage, Roberts taught physical education at Crestwood Elementary School in Meridian, Mississippi. A devoted father to Harmoni, Lyrik, and newborn Gianna Grace, he has juggled life as a parent, teacher, and aspiring artist with remarkable grace.
This wasn’t Roberts’ first appearance on national TV. He previously competed in BET’s Sunday Best, where he made it to the top three. But American Idol gave him a larger stage and the chance to share his soul through music every week. His finale performance of “First Time” by Teeks and Anthony Hamilton’s “Her Heart” sealed his fate as a standout contestant.
In other news, Popmedley recently shared a post on revealing the top 8 contestants of American Idol 2025 and their stunning performances.
John Foster Finishes As Runner-Up
While Jamal claimed the crown of the American Idol 2025 winner, John Foster also delivered a finale performance to remember. Finishing as the runner-up, Foster showcased an impressive mix of vocal range, charisma, and versatility. His journey throughout Season 23 made him a fan favorite, and many believe his music career is just beginning.
Foster’s chemistry with the judges and ability to command the stage kept the competition tight until the end. Alongside Breanna Nix, who placed third, the trio delivered a high-energy group performance of Queen’s “We Are the Champions” before the final results were announced.
Where is Jamal Roberts From?
Jamal Roberts hails from Meridian, Mississippi, a city that rallied behind him from day one. His return home during the show’s top three episode was emotional. Over 20,000 people filled the streets for a parade in his honor, while students at Crestwood Elementary celebrated their coach’s national spotlight.
Even as the new American Idol 2025 winner, Roberts hasn’t forgotten his roots. During the finale, he told viewers, “No matter what happens after this, I’m still going to be your coach.”
What’s Next for the First Black Man to Win American Idol in Two Decades?
With his win, Roberts joins a legendary list of past champions. He also enters the spotlight as a symbol of representation and resilience. While he’s kept his romantic life private, his devotion to his daughters and his city remains at the core of his story.
“This journey has been bigger than me,” Roberts said. “Now, I get to make music with the best in the world and share my story.”
Jamal Roberts’ win is the start of a promising new chapter in the life of a father, a teacher, and now, a rising star.