Who Is Jamal Roberts? Get to Know the 2025 Winner of American Idol

Jamal Roberts emerged as 2025's American Idol winner after a whirlwind finale episode Sunday evening, beating fellow finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix. The 26-year-old crooner blew away the judges and viewers week after week with his soulful vocal performances of “Tennessee Whiskey,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” and others.

Roberts auditioned for American Idol twice before landing a spot on this season of the nationally televised competition. The judges thought he was too young the first year he auditioned. On his second attempt, he was rejected for not having a backup song at the ready. As the saying goes, the third time’s the charm—his rendition of Rick James’ “Mary Jane” won him a golden ticket to the Hollywood round.

Before auditioning for American Idol, Roberts, 27, worked as a P.E. teacher for an elementary school in Meridian, Mississippi. Music has always been a part of his life. In an interview with Billboard, Roberts said that he sang with his church’s choir as a child. Though he wasn’t the most involved with musical extracurriculars in school, he “won every talent show [he] was in.” He is also the father of three daughters: Harmony, Lyrik, and Gianna, whose birth he announced on Instagram two days before the finale.

Beyond his musical talents, the singer’s style cemented him as a standout over the course of the season. Roberts’ experimented with various materials and colors for his ensembles, including a cowboy-inspired outfit with flared leather pants and a bright lilac suit (no shirt underneath!). His bold stage presence belies his lack of years in the music industry, wowing country star Jelly Roll during their performance of “Liar” and “Unpretty” on Sunday. 

Roberts is married. He and his wife keep their romantic and family life private, though it's reported that they share three daughters.

This year’s American Idol finale garnered 26 million votes, the largest voting pool since the show switched from Fox to ABC in 2018. The increased interest in the show may bolster Roberts’ future music endeavors. The emerging star released a new single, “Heal,” over the weekend.

Check back for more updates on American Idol 2025 winner Jamal Roberts.