Who Won American Idol Season 23 & How Much Prize Money Did They Win?

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Wondering about the winner of American Idol Season 23 and the final rankings from finale night? After several months filled with performances, public voting, and judge evaluations, the top three contenders squared off in a climactic live show, complete with guest artists, emotional goodbyes, and a nail-biting conclusion.

Here’s who took home the crown—and where the other finalists placed.

Who won American Idol Season 23 and who was second and third?

Jamal Roberts emerged victorious in American Idol’s Season 23. John Foster came in second place, and Breanna Nix ended up in third position. The results were announced by host Ryan Seacrest during the finale broadcast on May 18, 2025.

In the end, the top three contenders – Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix – showcased their talents one more time, inviting the audience to cast their votes. Jamal serenaded us with Teeks’ “First Time” and The Temptations’ classic hit, “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me).

John played Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” and John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads”, while Breanna belted out Katy Nichole’s “In Jesus Name” and Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb”. Jamal was crowned the victor after what Seacrest referred to as the “most monumental finale vote in the show’s history.

How much prize money did Jamal Roberts win from American Idol Season 23?

I was overjoyed when I clinched the title on American Idol Season 23 and inked a recording deal with Hollywood Records. As per usual, the winner’s prize package includes an initial check for $125,000 upon signing, along with a further $100,000 once I’ve completed my debut album (as reported by Newsweek).

It’s said that the victor is rumored to take home a grand total of $250,000, not including expenses related to album production. Previously, Newsweek mentioned that this competition offers winners up to $300,000 for album production, which is essentially an advance that must be repaid from future music earnings. However, American Idol has yet to reveal any changes in the prize structure for 2025. But according to the show’s standard contract, Roberts received the usual prize package.

In simple terms, Jamal Roberts, an elementary school gym teacher from Mississippi, received much admiration for his heartfelt singing and sincerity during the competition. His rendition of “Her Heart” by Anthony Hamilton after winning was said to be the climax of the season, with the judges claiming it as the most significant finale vote in the show’s entire run.

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2025-05-19 06:40