Jamal Roberts Becomes the Second Black Man to Win ‘American Idol’
Jamal Roberts has officially been crowned the winner of American Idol Season 23, making history as only the second Black man ever to win the long-running competition— and the first since the show’s 2018 reboot.
Hailing from Meridian, Mississippi, Roberts took to Instagram shortly after the finale to reflect on the surreal moment.
“I’m still trying to process this… God is so good,” he wrote. “From my first step on that stage to this unbelievable moment, I never dreamed a kid from my hometown would one day be called ‘American Idol.’”
From P.E. Teacher to National Spotlight
Before he was singing on national television, Roberts worked as a physical education teacher in his hometown. For him, the role wasn’t about a paycheck—it was about purpose.
“I wasn’t really doing the teaching thing for the money,” he told USA Today. “It was really the kids, (who are) just my inspiration.”
Even as his music career takes off, Roberts says he still wants to stay connected to the classroom and his community.
Proud Girl Dad and Family Man
Roberts’ win comes at a pivotal time in his personal life as well—just days before his victory, he and his partner welcomed their third daughter, Gianna. Already a father to Harmoni (6) and Lyrik (4), Roberts made his daughters a visible part of his Idol journey, often sharing heartfelt photos and dedications.
“I hope my girls see this and know that with faith, hard work, and heart, anything is possible,” he said. “This is our victory.”
A Moment Celebrated by Past Idol
As Roberts joins a short list of Black American Idol winners—Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Jordin Sparks, Candice Glover, and Just Sam—he’s already getting love from the legends. Fantasia, who won in 2004, shared her blessing on Instagram alongside a photo with Roberts:
“You stayed the same. Keep YAWEH close… never sell yourself short for anything that’s shiny,” she wrote. “Stay focused young man. I’m praying and keeping you covered.
With the show now behind him, Roberts is focused on two things: soaking in time with his daughters and getting to work on his music career.
“Now I get to do what I love, with the best in the game, and share my voice with the world,” he said. “This is my dream… and it’s just the beginning.”
From gym whistles to gold microphones, Jamal Roberts’ story is a testament to faith, family, and chasing something bigger.
