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3mo ago

Jamal Roberts Wins American Idol Season 23 After Record-Breaking Finale

The Mississippi gym teacher becomes the first Black male winner in 22 years, earning the title following 26 million votes and emotional performances.

John Foster, Breanna Nix and Jamal Roberts during American Idol on May 18.
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(L-R) 'American Idol' judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan took the stage during Sunday's season finale, where Jamal Roberts was crowned the Season 23 winner.

Overview

  • Jamal Roberts, a 27-year-old physical education teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, was crowned the winner of American Idol Season 23 on May 18, 2025.
  • Roberts' victory marks the first time a Black male contestant has won the competition since Ruben Studdard in 2003, highlighting a significant milestone for the show.
  • The season finale garnered a record-breaking 26 million votes, the highest since the show's relaunch on ABC in 2018, doubling last year's total.
  • Roberts performed Anthony Hamilton's 'Her Heart' to celebrate his win, earning praise for his soulful performances and personal story as a father of three.
  • ABC has confirmed the return of American Idol for Season 24, while this season also marked Carrie Underwood's debut as a judge alongside Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan.