Jamal Roberts is one step closer to winning American Idol Season 23. The 27-year-old P.E. teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, not only made it through to the Top 3 but did so with two emotionally charged performances on May 12. Roberts, a father of three, took the stage twice during a special Disney-themed episode, giving fans and voters more reason to keep him in the competition.
Double Disney night tested Jamal Roberts’ emotional connection
The episode featured a unique format: contestants performed two songs from Disney films. Roberts’ first performance was “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” from Remember the Titans. The high-energy number had Roberts engaging the audience, who mirrored his hand-clapping moves. The judges loved it. Bryan Adams called the performance “emotional,” while Lionel Richie said Roberts had “Jamalarized” the song with his signature soulful twist.
Roberts’ second Disney performance, however, posed a greater challenge. He sang “Beauty and the Beast,” but stumbled initially when he couldn’t explain why he chose the song. Guest mentor Lin-Manuel Miranda — who previously worked with Roberts during a Disney Night rehearsal — pointed out Roberts seemed disconnected from the lyrics. Roberts admitted he was struggling to find personal meaning in the classic lines.
But Roberts turned the moment around. With Miranda’s encouragement, he reinterpreted the song in his own style, transforming it into a soulful ballad that resonated with the crowd. The standing ovation that followed left even Miranda speechless. “Let’s win this baby, let’s win this!” Bryan urged after the performance. Roberts proved he could break through emotional barriers and still deliver.
From golden ticket to family man — Roberts’ journey resonates with viewers
Roberts’ American Idol journey began with a golden ticket earned by singing “Mary Jane” by Rick James. Since then, he’s steadily climbed the ranks with performances that showcase both his vocal range and emotional depth. But it's not just his voice that’s connected with fans — it’s his story.
Before the second Disney performance, viewers saw a heartfelt moment as Roberts visited Disneyland with his daughters, mom, and sister. He spoke about how much he loved seeing his kids’ smiles and how he hopes his singing can not only change his life but inspire others. For Roberts, this isn’t just a competition. It’s a chance to provide a better life for his family.
Roberts follows a strong legacy of Mississippi Idol finalists
Roberts is not the first Mississippian to make it this far, but he’s quickly becoming one of the most memorable. He joins the ranks of Colin Stough, who placed third in Season 21, and Trent Harmon, the Season 15 winner. Like them, Roberts is representing his home state with pride and authenticity.
Mississippi fans have plenty of reasons to rally behind Roberts, especially as he moves into the final round of the competition. With his soulful sound and grounded persona, he stands out in a field of talented singers.
What to expect from Jamal Roberts in the American Idol finale
Roberts will perform again in the finale on May 19, hoping to claim the crown. Given how he turned two Disney-themed performances into a showcase of his versatility and emotional honesty, it’s clear he knows how to work with material — and make it his own.
Whether he sticks to soul, taps into R&B, or finds a way to make a ballad soar, Roberts has proven he can connect with both the audience and the judges. Carrie Underwood called him “incredible,” even if she wished he had moved more during his first performance. Lionel Richie can’t get enough of his “soulful” approach. And Bryan Adams is clearly rooting for him.
Jamal Roberts isn’t just singing for the win. He’s singing for change — and fans are listening.
American Idol airs Sundays and Mondays at 7 p.m. CST on ABC. Fans can vote for Jamal Roberts via text, the American Idol app, or the official website during live shows.