American Idol Season 23: Winner, finalists, cash prize, and record-breaking finale highlights

27-year-old P.E. teacher Jamal Roberts from Meridian, Mississippi, was crowned the winner of American Idol Season 23 on May 18. He wowed the judges and audience with his powerful rendition of Anthony Hamilton’s Her Heart.

Jamal Roberts beat out fellow finalists Breanna Nix and John Foster in a close finale. All three delivered standout performances during the live event, which ran under a tight three-hour window.

Host Ryan Seacrest revealed that over 26 million votes were cast during the finale—the highest since the show moved to ABC in 2018. The massive vote count shows just how invested fans were this season.

According to past contract terms reported by Newsweek, Jamal will receive $125,000 upfront and another $100,000 after completing an album, totaling $250,000. The deal also includes a recording contract with Hollywood Records.

Jamal’s soulful performance earned high praise during the finale. His emotional connection and vocal control stood out in every round.

The finale featured a grand group number with the top 14 contestants, kicking off with Queen’s We Are the Champions.

After clinching the title, Jamal performed First Time by TEEKS and Just My Imagination by The Temptations.