Meridian native Jamal Roberts was crowned the winner of American Idol during the show’s season finale Sunday night, marking a major milestone in his rising music career and a moment of pride for Mississippi.
The three-hour live finale opened with the Top 3 finalists performing Queen’s anthem “We Are The Champions,” setting the tone for a night of celebration and high emotion.
Roberts, who has consistently impressed judges and fans throughout the season, paid tribute to his hometown during the first hour of the broadcast with performances of “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)” by The Temptations and “First Time” by TEEKS.
As the competition narrowed, Roberts and fellow finalist John Foster were announced as the Top 2 contenders for the title. In one of the night’s most anticipated performances, Roberts took the stage with country star Jelly Roll to perform “Unpretty” and “Liar.” The duet marked a full-circle moment for Roberts, who first sang “Unpretty” earlier this season at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii.
Roberts’ victory comes on the heels of a hometown celebration held Wednesday, May 14. The City of Meridian honored him with a parade and concert downtown. During the event, Ward 4 City Councilwoman Romande Walker officially proclaimed May 14 as Jamal Roberts Day in Meridian.
The win cements Roberts’ place as not only a national star, but a beloved hometown hero. Fans across the Queen City gathered to watch the finale and celebrate his journey from Meridian to the American Idol stage.
