Carrie Underwood Shares What She Told Jamal Roberts After His “Idol” Victory

Carrie Underwood Catches Heat for Behind-the-Scenes 'Idol' Video - Parade

Jamal Roberts Wins Season 23 Of American Idol

Two decades after she won Season 4 of American Idol, Carrie Underwood watched Jamal Roberts win Season 23.

Carrie was a new addition to the Idol judging panel this year (2025). She joined longtime judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan following Katy Perry’s departure from the show.

Throughout the season, Carrie connected with the contestants over their shared experiences. Many of the singers performed her songs during the competition, making some moments extra emotional for the “Church Bells” singer.

The Idol finale aired on Sunday (May 18). Carrie and the other judges celebrated with the three talented finalists: Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix.

By the end of the episode, PE teacher and father of three, Jamal Roberts, was crowned the winner of Season 23!

Speaking in a behind-the-scenes interview shared on Idol‘s Facebook page right after the finale, Jamal said:

“I’m speechless. This is my dream, and it just came true.That just goes to show, don’t give up on your dreams. Keep fighting. Keep working and it will come to pass.”

The judges all reacted to Jamal’s win shortly after the finale went off the air. In a post she shared on Instagram, Carrie wrote:

“Congratulations to the newest winner of @americanidol !!! I’m so proud of @officialjamalroberts and all he has accomplished this season and I can’t wait to see what mountains he climbs next! He’s going to do great things!”

Carrie Underwood Shared Encouraging Words With Jamal After The Finale

Carrie also got the chance to chat with Jamal one-on-one after the finale. That conversation was certainly surreal for both of them, considering that Carrie had been in the same position before as a newly crowned Idol champion.

During an interview with Extra after the finale wrapped, Carrie relayed the encouraging words she shared with Jamal when they talked:

“I got to tell him afterwards, ‘Now go do great things.’ And I feel like he certainly can.”

Carrie also gushed about Jamal’s extraordinary talent, saying:

“Jamal just has a gift from God. His voice is insane. Every time he opens his mouth it is flawless.”