He’s the first Black man to win the contest in two decades!
When Jamal Roberts stepped onto the American Idol stage, he carried more than just his voice, he carried a legacy, a dream, and a community. On May 18, 2025, the 27-year-old physical education teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, made history as the first Black man to win American Idol since Ruben Studdard in 2003, The Economic Times reports.
With his soul-stirring performance of Anthony Hamilton’s “Her Heart,” Roberts captured the hearts of America and the title of American Idol Season 23 champion. A devoted father of three daughters, his win wasn’t just a personal triumph; it was a testament to perseverance, purpose, and the power of belief.
Throughout the finale, Roberts delivered unforgettable renditions of TEEKS’ “First Time” and The Temptations’ classic “Just My Imagination,” showcasing the full depth of his vocal range and emotional storytelling. He also performed a powerful duet with country music star Jelly Roll, rounding out a night filled with legendary appearances from artists like Jennifer Holliday, Good Charlotte, Jessica Simpson, and the Goo Goo Dolls.
But behind every note was a journey that couldn’t be measured in airtime. Roberts spoke candidly about the obstacles he faced in transitioning from a classroom to the big stage, reminding us that sometimes, our greatest gifts are tucked inside everyday lives. He had been teaching physical education by day and raising three young girls, all while nurturing a voice that would one day be heard across the nation.
Roberts beat out finalists John Foster and Brenna Nix, with Foster placing second and Nix taking third. The finale also included special performances with the judges’ panel: Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie.
As the 2025 American Idol winner, Roberts will receive $125,000 upfront, with an additional $100,000 following the completion of his debut album under Hollywood Records. More than the money or the contract, however, this win marks a cultural milestone—one that reminds us just how powerful it is to dream while grounded in your roots.
Jamal Roberts sang for more than just a title—he sang for the ones who never gave up, for his daughters watching at home, and for every young Black boy with a voice the world has yet to hear. And now, the world is listening.
News
When I walked in on my wife with my own brother, I didn’t scream or fight. I smiled. By the time she got home, the joint account was empty, her credit cards were useless, and every relative had the photos.
When I caught my wife sleeping with my brother, I didn’t argue. Instead, I drained our joint bank account, canceled…
My son sold my $4 million ranch without telling me. Then he handed me a $15,000 check and said: “Go live far away from here.” I just laughed. He had no idea what I had already done a few days earlier…
“Get out of here, Mom. Far away.” Julian’s words echoed in my ears like a death sentence. He had just…
I arrived at my son’s wedding and gave my name. The staff frowned: “Your name is not on the list.” When I found my son, he rolled his eyes and said, “Did you really think you’d be invited?” I smiled calmly and walked away. But in the middle of the ceremony, his phone began ringing nonstop…
I arrived at my own son’s wedding, and when I gave my name, the staff looked at me with confusion….
My daughter-in-law left me standing in the rain for three hours while they dined inside. I heard her laugh: “Let her wait outside.” The next morning, I called the bank and froze their access to my accounts. By evening, they were pounding on my door—desperate.
“Let her wait outside. We’re having dinner.” The voice of my daughter-in-law, Caroline, cut through the window like a knife….
I bought a mansion in secret. Then one afternoon, I caught my daughter-in-law giving her family a grand tour. “The master suite is mine,” she declared proudly. “And my mom can take the room next door.” I stood in silence, hidden in the hallway, listening to every word. I waited until they finally left. Then I changed every single lock, one by one. And I installed security cameras. What those cameras captured later… left me speechless.
“I waited for them to leave, changed every lock, and installed security cameras. If you’re watching this, subscribe and let…
MY DAUGHTER-IN-LAW SAID: “IT’S JUST 15 PEOPLE.” I SMILED: “PERFECT. I’M GOING ON VACATION. YOU CAN HANDLE IT—BECAUSE I’M NOT YOUR NANNY OR YOUR MAID.” Her face went pale… but she had no idea the real shock was still on its way.
“It’s just fifteen people,” Emran said, swirling her wine glass as if she were already bored with the conversation. She…
End of content
No more pages to load
