Who Won American Idol 2025? Jamal Roberts Crowned Champion in Record-Breaking Finale

It was a night filled with dreams, music, and unforgettable emotion. The 23rd season of American Idol came to a stunning close with Jamal Roberts, a 27-year-old physical education teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, walking away as the winner. Competing against John Foster and Breanna Nix, who finished second and third respectively, Jamal’s heartfelt journey to the top captured America’s attention and votes.

Let’s take a closer look at Jamal’s inspiring win, what he takes home, and the star-studded finale that made this season one of the most unforgettable yet.

A Dad of Three Wins It All

Jamal Roberts isn’t just an Idol champ. He’s a proud father of three and a full-time teacher. His grounded spirit and warm voice won over millions of fans across the country. When it came time to seal his fate during the finale, Jamal chose to sing “Her Heart” by Anthony Hamilton. The performance was raw, emotional, and full of soul. It clearly struck a chord with viewers.

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According to host Ryan Seacrest, the finale saw the “biggest finale vote in show history,” with less than three hours for fans to make their voices heard. That massive wave of support was a true reflection of how much people connected with Jamal’s journey and message.

Bringing Love and Unity to Meridian

Before the grand finale, as is tradition with the final few contestants, Jamal returned to his hometown. His visit to Meridian was emotional, powerful, and meaningful. He sang “Just My Imagination” by The Temptations as footage of his homecoming played in the background. Speaking to producers, Jamal shared his dream to “bring love and peace and unity” to his community.

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In a season where every contestant had a unique voice and story, Jamal’s humble roots and family-first values made him stand out. He didn’t just aim to win a title. He aimed to inspire.

What Does the Winner of American Idol Get?

Winning American Idol is more than just a trophy or title. It’s a life-changing leap into the music industry.

Jamal will receive:

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• $125,000 for winning the show
• An additional $100,000 after completing a full-length album
• A record deal with Hollywood Records

But that’s not all. According to a previous Newsweek report, the winner also receives up to $300,000 in budget for recording their debut album. This budget acts as an advance and will be recouped from the winner’s future music earnings.

This support gives Jamal the foundation to create a polished, professional debut album that reflects his voice and vision.

Watch the American Idol Finale on Hulu

Didn’t catch the finale live? You can stream the full episode on Hulu, where every performance, surprise guest, and emotional moment is available to relive. Whether you’re a longtime Idol fan or just discovered Jamal this season, it’s worth watching.

The Biggest Finale Yet

The Season 23 finale didn’t hold back. The Top 14 contestants returned for a grand opening number of Queen’s “We Are the Champions,” setting the tone for the night.

Then came one of the most thrilling parts of the show — live performances from music legends and fan-favorite artists. This year’s guest lineup was a powerhouse that included:

• Jessica Simpson
• Patti LaBelle
• Salt-N-Pepa
• Josh Groban
• Jennifer Holliday
• Goo Goo Dolls
• Brandon Lake
• Good Charlotte
• Kirk Franklin
• Myles Smith

And in a rare treat, all three judges — Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie — took to the stage for special performances, giving fans a glimpse of their own star power beyond the judging panel.

Stay Tuned for Season 24 of American Idol

ABC has confirmed that American Idol will return for Season 24. The show continues to discover voices from across the country, and if this year was any sign, the talent is only getting better.

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing on that stage, now is your chance. Keep an eye on auditions and get ready for your moment.

Follow Jamal’s Journey After the Show

Want to keep up with Jamal Roberts and his music? Make sure to follow him on social media and streaming platforms. As he begins work on his debut album with Hollywood Records, fans can expect a soulful, heartfelt record full of the same energy he brought to every performance this season.

He’s not just an American Idol. He’s a symbol of dedication, heart, and hope.