Jamal Roberts is the newest American idol. During the season 23 finale on Sunday, May 18, Roberts was crowned the winner of the singing competition show. Ryan Seacrest said he won following what was the "biggest finale vote in show history."

Roberts was up against John Foster and Breanna Nix, who placed second and third, respectively. The star sang "Her Heart" by Anthony Hamilton to mark his win.

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Who is Jamal Roberts, winner of American Idol 2025?

Jamal Roberts is a 27-year-old physics teacher from Meridian, Mississippi. He reached a historic milestone as the first Black man in 22 years to win the acclaimed reality singing competition. His triumph in the 23rd season of American Idol, earned with an impressive 26 million votes, represents a powerful cultural moment—echoing Ruben Studdard's groundbreaking victory in 2003.

Jamal first caught the judges’ attention with his audition of “Mary Jane” by Rick James, according to PEOPLE. “Man, you got some stuff in there and by the end, you were letting it come out. Just relax. You got the voice and you know how to tell a story. Priceless,” said Lionel Richie.

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On May 18, 2025, Jamal Roberts etched his name into music history by winning American Idol, becoming the first Black male champion since Ruben Studdard’s 2003 triumph. Throughout the season, Roberts captivated millions with his soulful voice, emotional performances, and undeniable stage presence. Hailing from Mississippi, he triumphed over finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix, securing the title thanks to his heartfelt connection with audiences and his inspiring rise from modest beginnings.

Jamal Robert's early life and musical beginnings

Born and raised in Meridian, Mississippi, Jamal’s love for music began in childhood. Growing up in a deeply spiritual household, his earliest musical experiences took place in church, according to TOI.Is Memorial Day a federal holiday in the US? Check what's open and shut With his grandfather a bishop and his grandmother a deacon, Jamal started singing in the church choir as a toddler. Influenced by legends like The Temptations and Michael Jackson, his talent quickly stood out. In a 2025 interview with Billboard, he shared, “I started singing at the age of two. My grandparents discovered my voice, and I’ve been singing ever since.”

Before gaining national fame, Jamal worked as a physical education teacher at Crestwood Elementary School. Despite his demanding day job, he never gave up on his musical dreams. His big break came during his American Idol audition, where he wowed judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood with a soulful performance of Rick James’ "Mary Jane." That moment set the stage for a season full of show-stopping vocals and emotional resonance.

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A proud father and husband

Offstage, Jamal is a proud husband and father. He and his wife, who prefers to stay out of the public eye, are raising three daughters: Harmoni (6), Lyrik (4), and newborn Gianna Grace, born just days before his Top 8 performance. Despite his rising stardom, Jamal remains deeply devoted to his family, frequently sharing touching moments with his daughters on social media.

Jamal Roberts’ victory is more than a personal achievement—it’s a cultural milestone. His journey from small-town educator to national sensation serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance, authenticity, and raw talent can lead to extraordinary success. As he embarks on the next chapter of his career, Jamal is determined to create music that uplifts, inspires, and reshapes the landscape of soul and R&B.