Mississippi’s Jamal Roberts Heads Into ‘American Idol’ Finale with Hometown Support Behind Him
MERIDIAN, Miss. — Jamal Roberts, the 27-year-old PE teacher and father of three from Meridian, Mississippi, is heading into the final round of Season 23 of American Idol, and his hometown couldn’t be prouder.
During Monday night’s episode, host Ryan Seacrest announced Roberts as one of the top three finalists who will compete in Sunday’s highly anticipated finale. He’ll go up against Breanna Nix, a stay-at-home mom from Texas, and John Foster, a teenage country singer from Louisiana.
Before the big show, the American Idol cast and crew traveled to Mississippi to celebrate Roberts’ journey with a special hometown visit.
A Hero’s Welcome at Crestwood Elementary
On Wednesday, Roberts received a heartwarming surprise homecoming at Crestwood Elementary School, where the students thought they were simply gathering in the cafeteria for a quick meeting about their fifth-grade vs. teacher kickball game.
Instead, they were greeted by a familiar face who’s been lighting up national television screens.
“It is awesome seeing him come back. The kids have been waiting. They watch the YouTube videos. They tell each other when to vote,” said Deyantah Curry, a teacher at Crestwood. “That was an amazing feeling to see him come back and watch the kids’ reactions. They were really excited.”
From Meridian to Millions
In a recent interview with SuperTalk Mississippi News, Roberts reflected on what his hometown means to him and the unwavering support he’s received from the very beginning.
“Growing up in Meridian, the people who are there, I still know them,” Roberts said. “I’m able to walk outside and speak and congregate with people that I’ve been knowing for years. There’s no fame. It’s just Jamal. I don’t have to change or try to be somebody I’m not. They’re always here for me.”
Roberts previously competed on BET’s Sunday Best during the COVID era but was eliminated early in the process. Now, with a second chance on Idol, he’s grateful for how everything has come full circle.
“It’s a different ballgame. It’s a different time,” he said. “Sunday Best was recorded during COVID. I really didn’t get much out of it. Got cut loose, but I’m just thankful I did get cut loose, because if that never would’ve happened, this never would’ve happened.”
Finale Airs Sunday, May 18
Jamal Roberts will take the stage one last time in the American Idol Season 23 finale this Sunday, May 18. As voting opens and millions watch across the country, Meridian will be cheering louder than anyone.
Don’t miss your chance to support one of Mississippi’s brightest stars as he sings for the title of American Idol champion.
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