Jamal Roberts’ “American Idol” Win Predicted Months Earlier by Fellow Finalist Breanna Nix
As American Idol Season 23 wrapped up with Jamal Roberts crowned the winner on May 18, 2025, it turns out the prediction of his victory came much earlier—from fellow finalist Breanna Nix.
Roberts, 27, revealed that during Hollywood Week in late January, Nix approached him with a bold proclamation: “You’re anointed,” she said. “You’re going to win this.” Although initially skeptical, Roberts soon saw her confidence hold strong through every performance.
Nix recorded a video of herself making the prediction and shared it publicly on May 20, confirming her early belief in Roberts’ success despite barely knowing him at the time.
“I just felt it in my heart,” Nix told Entertainment Tonight. “I walked up to him and said, ‘You’re gonna win American Idol.’”
On finale night, while awaiting the results alongside Roberts and runner-up John Foster, Nix candidly admitted she expected to place third and predicted the win would be between Roberts and Foster.
Despite finishing third, Nix’s future shines bright. Her debut single “Higher,” released through the American Idol record label partner 19 Recordings, shot to number one on the iTunes country chart, with Foster’s “Tell That Angel I Love Her” at number two.
In a rare feat, the top three finalists’ singles dominated the iTunes overall music chart on May 19: Roberts’ “Heal” claimed number one, Nix’s “Higher” at number two, and Foster’s single at number three—showcasing the incredible talent of this season’s finalists.
