American Idol declared Jamal Roberts the champion of season 23 on Sunday, May 18, 2025, creating immediate controversy. Fans questioned the final results and supported a different contestant.

The show’s official Facebook page displayed Roberts smiling with his two young daughters and a winner’s prize basket. The post praised his victory and concluded this season’s contest.

Roberts claimed the crown, but his triumph generated fierce responses from audiences. Many viewers supported runner-up John Foster instead. The controversy spread across social media sites quickly. Disappointed and angry fans expressed their feelings online.

Instagram users shared their opinions about the results. One fan stated, “Eh. John should have won.” Another person replied, “John was robbed.” A third viewer claimed, “Another rigged season.”

Facebook users posted similar reactions. One comment read, “John should have won. He was so natural. Jamal screams too much.” Another fan explained, “I really think John should have won. We need a good old fashioned country singer. They will all move on, all of them were great.”

Some fans showed stronger disappointment. One supporter declared, “John Foster got robbed. I will not watch next season.” Another viewer suggested, “Yeah, it should have been John Foster cause he’s definitely better.”

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American Idol’ winner Jamal Roberts hasn’t received his … (Source: www.lehighvalleylive.com)
However, not all responses criticized the decision. One person recognized both contestants and stated, “They’re both going places. Congratulations Jamal. Now John Foster isn’t bound to American Idol contract.”

Roberts’ Instagram profile reveals he performs as a singer and raises two daughters called Harmoni and Lyriks.

This season’s outcome sparked extensive online conversations. Roberts advances as the official champion, yet many supporters continue questioning the results and defending Foster.

Viewer responses this season extended beyond the final contestants. During earlier episodes, Carrie Underwood’s guest role attracted criticism as multiple fans questioned her judging approach and demanded her replacement for next season.

Underwood adopted a fantasy theme before the May 12 American Idol show, resembling Rapunzel in a stunning purple dress with contemporary elements. The outfit displayed a bold thigh-high opening and delicate flower designs across the front, combining sophistication with striking style.

Her golden hair cascaded down to her silver heels, decorated with purple floral details that created magical charm. Underwood posted the appearance on Instagram with the message, “It’s a #DisneyNight fit check! #CUonIDOL,” before the Disney-themed show began.

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Jamal Roberts: American Idol Season 23 Champion 🎤 – Empower … (Source: theempowermag.com)
Five remaining contestants performed twice that evening. Each singer delivered one hero-themed song and one villain performance while competing for viewer votes.

Underwood’s gown attracted notice for its playful Rapunzel reference, yet numerous watchers concentrated on her evaluation style. Her comments triggered multiple online responses.

One direct viewer wrote, “Get rid of her. Her bias is showing.” Another frustrated watcher posted, “I wish it was a way to vote you off 🙄 Definitely plays favorites and it’s cringey to watch.”

A conflicted supporter stated, “I love Carrie but this outfit was not it! And why critiquing Jamal so harshly? when the other guys do the same things that he does…he’s incredible! And i’m so shocked that Gabby was sent home.”

Someone else repeated similar worries, writing, “Yep she definitely didn’t like Jamal.” Another person requested changes, posting, “Jelly Roll pleaseeeeee she’s got to go!”

A disappointed viewer expressed their feelings bluntly: “I hope you don’t be a judge on this show again you bring fake energy. Please don’t come back.”

Some watchers defended the judge quickly. One supporter encouraged her with “You’re still going to get criticized, so you might as well do whatever you want 💫 ❤️🔥😸.”

Another admirer complimented her: “Loved you as a judge this year. People don’t realize that you are dressed as Rapunzel tonight ….so much hate in this world. Love you, Carrie.”

A different person added a positive message: “Carrie I enjoyed watching you as a judge on American Idol, this year!I hope you come back year!!”

Host Ryan Seacrest led the show while Underwood received harsh criticism from audiences. She worked alongside fellow judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan that evening. The panel reduced the competition to three final contestants.

Slater Nalley and Thunderstorm Artis faced elimination after performing twice each. Nalley sang “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from “Toy Story” and “Born to be Wild” from “D3: The Mighty Ducks.” Thunderstorm delivered “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from “Cinderella” and “Find Yourself” from “Cars.”

Foster, Roberts, and Breanna Nix moved forward to the finale. Foster sang “The Bare Necessities” from “The Jungle Book” and “Rainbow Connection” from “The Muppet Movie.” Roberts impressed audiences with “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” from “Remember the Titans” and “Beauty and the Beast” from the classic movie with the same title.

Breanna progressed after performing “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” from “The Parent Trap” and “You’ll Be in My Heart” from “Tarzan.”

The season concluded with unforgettable performances and surprising developments. Both the final outcome and guest judge appearances split viewer opinions. These events kept discussions about American Idol active and ongoing.