When American Idol wrapped its 23rd season this weekend, history was made—and it came with soul, sincerity, and a whole lot of Mississippi pride.
Jamal Roberts, a former P.E. teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, was crowned the newest American Idol, becoming only the second Black man ever to win the competition. The last time it happened? Ruben Studdard in 2003.
Twenty years later, Roberts not only reminded the nation of the power of raw talent and authenticity but also showed what it looks like when faith, fatherhood, and purpose converge on a national stage.
“I’m still trying to process this… God is so good,” Roberts shared on Instagram. “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.”
Before amazing millions of viewers with his voice, Roberts was a P.E. teacher back home, a job he says was never about the paycheck, but about his students.
“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.”
He says he doesn’t plan on leaving them behind, even with a major music career now unfolding. Whether it’s dropping in at school or showing up for special moments, Roberts wants his students to continue seeing what’s possible because he once stood exactly where they are now.
Behind the mic, Jamal Roberts has always been a father first. A proud girl dad to three daughters—Harmoni (6), Lyrik (4), and newborn Gianna—Roberts often shared intimate, joy-filled moments with his girls throughout the season. His journey was as much about them as it was about the music.
“I hope my girls see this and know that with faith, hard work, and heart, anything is possible,” he wrote. “To my city, my family, and everyone out there grinding for something greater—this is our victory.”
Gianna, his youngest, arrived just days before his Idol win, adding an even deeper meaning to the milestone moment.
With his win, Roberts enters a small, powerful fraternity of Black Idol winners, joining the ranks of Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Jordin Sparks, Candice Glover, and Just Sam. That history isn’t lost on him, or on those who came before him.
Fantasia, always quick to uplift new talent, posted a heartfelt message to Roberts that read like a blessing and a reminder:
“Never were you ashamed to call His name, never did you change your posture, you stayed the same… Keep YAWEH close… Stay focused, young man. I’m praying and keeping you covered.”
With the season now behind him, Roberts says he’s focused on two things: spending quality time with his daughters and crafting his debut music project. Though he hasn’t announced a release date or label deal just yet, one thing’s for sure—he’s ready.
Congratulations, Jamal!
Photo Credit: Instagram – @OfficialJamalRoberts
