American Idol Season 23 Winner Crowned: Here's Everything They Win

On May 18th, American Idol’s three remaining contestants sang their hearts out in the hopes of receiving enough votes from America to be crowned Season 23’s winner. Breanna Nix, John Foster, and Jamal Roberts emerged as the final three contestants on the reality TV singing competition show, each proving they were worthy of the grand prize. But in the end, only one could take the crown. Fans had to wait until the final moments of the live, three-hour, entertainment-packed finale to find out who would be named the next Idol champion.

The finale was filled with performances by the three contestants, Idol judges — Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood — as well as the returning Top 14. Viewers also got a special treat with performances by A-list acts like Good Charlotte, the Goo Goo Dolls, Patti LaBelle, Jessica Simpson, and this season’s artist-in-residence, Jelly Roll.

After 26 million votes were cast during the live episode, host Ryan Seacrest revealed that Season 23’s winner was Meridian, Mississippi native Jamal Roberts.

American Idol Season 23 Declares Its Winner, But What Do They Really Win?

American Idol has crowned its winner after the finale episode aired on May 18th. After a live, three-hour episode, 27-year-old Jamal Roberts received the most votes by America to be crowned Idol’s champion for Season 23. It was a momentous conclusion that saw Jamal and 18-year-old John Foster holding their breaths and each other as Ryan Seacrest made the announcement.

After Jamal was named winner, he was stunned but recovered as he took the stage to sing Anthony Hamilton’s “Her Heart” as confetti flew all around him. He was then joined by Foster, who was named runner-up, Breanna Nix, who learned she had placed 3rd earlier that night, and the Top 14.

Now that Jamal has been named Season 23’s winner, what exactly does he win?

According to People, Jamal wins prizes that include a cash prize and a coveted record contract. Over the years, the cash prize for the Idol winner has changed. When Kelly Clarkson won the very first season of American Idol, she reportedly won $1 million and a recording contract with RCA Records. However, when Season 16 winner Maddie Poppe spoke to Business Insider, she claimed that she had won $250,000, which came with stipulations.

“You do get $250,000, but not really because of taxes. And you get half of it before you complete your record, and then the second half you get after you complete the record. So it’s just like an advance from the record deal, but I’m pretty sure I have to recoup it.”

While it’s not clear how much money Jamal is walking away with, it’s certain to be a significant amount.

Jamal also secured a recording contract, which is the ultimate goal for Idol hopefuls. While the cash prize is impressive, the opportunity to record and release original music is even more valuable. If Jamal’s debut album takes off, the only direction is up: more music, more appearances, and bigger concert stages await.

During the Idol finale, Jamal sang Tom O’Dell’s “Heal,” and added some of his own lyrics. The song is Jamal’s first official single and will certainly be on his upcoming debut album.

After his Idol win, Jamal took to Instagram to thank his family and the fans for believing in his music journey.

“I’m still trying to process this… God is so good. 🙏🏾

From my first step on that stage to this unbelievable moment, I never dreamed a kid from my hometown would one day be called American Idol. This journey has been bigger than me, and I’m so grateful for every person who believed in me when I was just chasing a dream.

Most of all, I hope my girls see this and know that with faith, hard work, and heart, anything is possible. To my city, my family, and everyone out there grinding for something greater, this is our victory.

Now, I get to make music with the best in the world and share my story. But this isn’t the end… it’s just the beginning. From the bottom of my heart…. THANK YOU! None of this happens without y’all. 💙”

Do The Runner-Up And Third Place Winners Receive Anything?

During the first live hour of the American Idol finale, Ryan Seacrest brought all three finalists on stage where he announced which of them received the least votes during that time, and would finish in third place. It was revealed that Denton, Texas native Breanna Nix was the one who placed third. That meant that John and Jamal would continue to rack up votes during the remaining two hours, with most of America’s votes going to Jamal to be named Season 23’s champ.

Although Breanna and John didn’t take home the title, their journey on American Idol has already set the stage for successful music careers. Making it to the finale earned them millions of fans, and those fans are eager to hear what comes next from both artists.

During the finale, John also sang an original tune titled, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” which he had performed previously in the competition. The song touched the judges and viewers alike after it was learned that the song was dedicated to a friend who had died. It was John’s first single, which fans are sure to hear more of on country radio stations.

Both Breanna and John shared separate Instagram posts that they promised fans they would continue with their music careers despite not winning Season 23.

John wrote alongside a photo of him performing on Idol: “Man, what a true blessing to share this Idol stage with so many incredible heroes, both new faces and legends. I’m beyond thankful, and I can’t wait to keep making music for y’all as long as the good Lord lets me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart – times a million. 🙏❤️ #Grateful #IDOL #Blessed #JohnFoster.”

As for Breanna, she found a wave of fans she called “Nix Nation,” who will continue to follow her musical journey thanks to Idol. “I don’t even know where to begin… Nix Nation – thank you from the bottom of my heart to every single one of you who’s supported me throughout this experience. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and so excited for what’s next. I can’t wait to share more music and grow with you, this is just the beginning. There’s so much I want to say, but for now… thank you. Truly. You’ve changed my life. 💙 #idol #NixNation,” she captioned her post.

In another post, Breanna also shared that she had already released her single, “Higher.”

“My song “Higher” is out now. I am beyond thankful to everyone who’s supported me through @amercianidol and so happy you finally get to hear the recording of this one. It has some powerful words in it. I hope you guys like it!

Will Carrie Underwood Return As Judge For Season 24?

Carrie Underwood experienced a full-circle moment when she was named as a new judge for American Idol Season 23. Carrie replaced Katy Perry, who left the show to focus on her music career.

A beloved Idol alum herself, Carrie won Season 4, and brought a wave of nostalgia by wearing the exact same dress she wore the night she was crowned champion. In another episode, Carrie also sang “Alone,” the same song she sang 20 years ago, which was deemed one of Idol’s most iconic moments. After her performance, former judge Simon Cowell admitted that she was not only going to win the entire competition, but also sell the most records than any other Idol winner before her.

So, will Carrie be returning for Season 24? According to The US Sun, Idol’s viewership soared this season, which could be due to Carrie joining Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie on the judges panel. The outlet reported that the May 11th episode brought in the highest viewership of the season with over 5 million.

When TV Line interviewed Idol showrunner Megan Michaels Wolflick about Carrie’s return, she teased that there’s a good chance she will return after loving the dynamic of all three judges.

“It’s early days still, but I love our panel. I think we’re in a good place. I’m excited for them to crown their first winner together as a threesome. They’re all passionate about the show.”

Fans initially had mixed reactions to another country artist joining the judging panel. However, opinions began to shift as Carrie showcased her broad knowledge of all music genres. While she faced some criticism for her judging, many now appreciate her balanced approach which gives off a little bit Simon Cowell and a little bit Paula Abdul, in one.