PE Teacher from Meridian named Season 23 American Idol Winner

Image Courtesy of BET

American Idol host Ryan Seacrest announced on Sunday, May 18, that a 27-year-old physical education teacher from Meridian, MS was the next American Idol.

Jamal Roberts was celebrated last week in his hometown with a free-to-the-public outdoor event. There was a record-breaking number of votes on Sunday; 26 million viewers voted.

Roberts is a PE teacher at Crestwood Elementary School in Meridian. He is described as a devoted father of three, with a love of music that goes back to singing hymns in church.

Roberts has actually tried out for American Idol three times before being cast in the musical talent competition. On the season finale, the final three contestants gave their all for viewer votes. Along with Roberts, contestants John Foster and Breanna Nix provided their final performances. The show kicked off with a group performance of Queen's "We are the Champions."

Ironically, many Mississippians associate that song with sporting events - many high school games feature "We are the Champions" or "We Will Rock You" during games.

Jamal performed three solos: "First Time" by Teeks, "Just my Imagination" by The Temptations, and Tom Odell's "Heal." Roberts' mentor, Jelly Roll, was "moved to tears by at

least one of Jamal's performances."

Roberts reflected," I won for my kids. I won for my hometown. I won for the state of Mississippi."

The Season 23 runner-up is from Louisiana, John Roberts. Foster featured music with a country vibe; one of his performances was Toby Keith's "Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue." Number Three for Season 23 was Breanna Nix, a Texan.

Roberts won high accolades from the judging panel - Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood. Jamal won many fans online as well; some described Jamal has "a GREAT vocalist - he proved in every performance in the finale."

Congratulations, Jamal! You have made Mississippi proud!