“American Idol” has named its Season 23 winner.
The final three contestants were:
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John Foster, 18, a college student from Addis, Louisiana
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Breanna Nix, 25, a stay-at-home mom from Denton, Texas
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Jamal Roberts, 27, a PE teacher from Meridian, Mississippi
The May 18 finale lasted three hours and featured performances by the Top 14 and guests like Patti LaBelle, Salt-N-Pepa, The Goo Goo Dolls, Jessica Simpson, Good Charlotte, and others.
About 26 million fan votes came in during the finale.
Who won “American Idol” 2025?
Jamal Roberts won the popular vote and became the Season 23 champion.
According to USA TODAY, he is the first Black male winner since Ruben Studdard in 2003.
What does the winner receive?
Per Distractify, the winner gets $250,000 and a recording contract with Hollywood Records/19 Recordings.
Is there a Season 24?
USA TODAY confirmed Season 24 in early May. It’s not yet known if judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood will return. The premiere date is still pending.
What did the finalists sing?
John Foster
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“Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue” – Toby Keith
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“Take Me Home, Country Roads” – John Denver
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“Deeper Than the Holler” – Randy Travis (duet with Luke Bryan)
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“Tell That Angel That I Love Her” (original single)
Jamal Roberts
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“First Time” – Teeks
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“Just My Imagination” – The Temptations
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“Liar” and “Unpretty” (duet with Jelly Roll)
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“Heal” – Tom Odell (original single)
Breanna Nix
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“In Jesus Name” – Katy Nichole
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“The Climb” – Miley Cyrus
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was crowned the winner of American Idol in the season 23 finale?
Jamal Roberts, a 27-year-old P.E. teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, was crowned the winner of American Idol Season 23. He won the popular vote during the finale, which aired on May 18, 2025.
Which contestants made it to the final round of American Idol season 23?
The final three contestants for Season 23 were:
- Breanna Nix
- John Foster
- Jamal Roberts
Jamal Roberts emerged as the winner after competing against Breanna and John in the grand finale.
How can I vote for contestants in American Idol season 23?
Viewers can typically vote for their favorite contestants by:
- Voting through the official American Idol website.
- Using the American Idol app on mobile devices.
- Sending text votes if the option is available during live episodes.
Voting details and official rules are usually provided during each live broadcast.
Can you tell me about some of the American Idol season 23 highlights?
Some highlights from Season 23 include:
- Memorable performances from the final contestants.
- Emotional moments during eliminations.
- Special musical guests and judges’ duets.
- Jamal Roberts’s standout performance in the finale that clinched his victory.
Who are the top performing non-winners from American Idol’s past seasons?
Some notable non-winners from previous American Idol seasons include:
- Adam Lambert (Season 8 runner-up)
- Jennifer Hudson (7th place, Season 3)
- Katharine McPhee (Season 5 runner-up)
- Tori Kelly (Hollywood Week, Season 9)
- Chris Daughtry (4th place, Season 5)
These artists have gone on to achieve significant success in music and entertainment.
Where can I watch the performances from American Idol season 23?
Episodes and performances from American Idol Season 23 can usually be streamed on:
- The ABC Network’s official website: https://abc.com/shows/american-idol
- Hulu (subscription required)
- Clips and highlights may also be available on the American Idol YouTube channel.
For the latest and full episodes, check with your local listings or the official platforms above.
