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yesterday

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

The Mississippi native triumphed over John Foster and Breanna Nix to claim the title after a season marked by intense competition and unprecedented fan engagement.

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Top 3 contestant Jamal Roberts performs during the second Disney Night episode on "American Idol" Season 23 which aired Monday, May 12 on ABC.
American Idol finalist John Foster performs "Don't Rock the Jukebox" at Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park in Plaquemine, La., Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
John Foster, Breanna Nix and Jamal Roberts were the Top 3 during the "American Idol" Season 23 finale on May. 18, 2025.

Overview

  • Jamal Roberts was crowned the winner of 'American Idol' Season 23 during the live finale on May 18, 2025, with John Foster finishing as the runner-up and Breanna Nix placing third.
  • The finale set a new record for audience participation, with over 27 million votes cast nationwide, the highest in the show's history on ABC.
  • Roberts, a 27-year-old physical education teacher and father of three from Meridian, Mississippi, impressed judges and fans with his soulful performances, including his winning rendition of Anthony Hamilton's 'Her Heart.'
  • The live finale featured performances by the Top 3 contestants, the judges, and special guests like Salt-N-Pepa, Goo Goo Dolls, and Patti LaBelle, alongside duets with the season's Top 14 singers.
  • Judge Luke Bryan had predicted Roberts as the frontrunner, while fans rallied for underdog John Foster, showcasing the dynamic interplay of expert opinions and audience influence in the outcome.