After winning American Idol, Jamal Roberts walked away with cash, a brand-new car, and the title of champion—but none of it compared to the moment he held his newborn daughter for the first time. This week, life handed Jamal two unforgettable victories: one under the bright stage lights, and one in the quiet, sacred stillness of a hospital room. Just days before the finale, Jamal became a father for the third time, welcoming his baby girl into the world. Fame came fast, but for Jamal, no applause could ever match the sound of his daughter’s first cry.

Jamal Roberts celebrated two major milestones this week. In addition to finding success on American Idol, he welcomed a new baby girl. On May 17th, the singer shared a series of three photos on social media and wrote:

“Hey world, meet my little ladybug 😩, Gianna Grace Roberts. I am so proud to be her father 😭” 

In one of the photos, baby Gianna is sporting a onesie that reads, “My dad is the next American Idol.” The Mississippi native explained in his pre-show package that he did not share the news earlier because it was “so personal.”

While Roberts has not shared details of his relationship publicly, he has two older daughters, whom TV Insider reports are named Harmoni and Lyrik. The girls have accompanied their father during various parts of the competition, including his audition, Disney week, and the finale.

Jamal Roberts Wins American Idol

On Sunday, May 18th, contestants John Foster, Breanna Nix, and Jamal Roberts remained in the running to be named the next American Idol. Each performed four times for the finale, including duets with judges and a group performance with their fellow finalists.

For his two solo performances, Roberts wowed with covers of TEEKS’ “First Time” and “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)” by The Temptations.

Additionally, he joined Jelly Roll for a powerful mashup performance of “Liar” and “Unpretty.”

Following the night of incredible talent and memorable performances, host Ryan Seacrest shared the news everyone had been waiting for… Jamal Roberts was voted the winner of American Idol!

The New Idol Champion Reacts

Moments after winning the competition, Roberts told Seacrest during a live Facebook stream:

“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.”

He adds that he is first, “giving honor to God who is the head of my life. I’m thanking Him for this opportunity.”

Congratulations, Jamal Roberts! See his crowning moment as American Idol season 23 champion in the video below!