Fresh off his historic American Idol win, Jamal Roberts is using his voice not just to sing—but to set boundaries. In a heartfelt video message posted on May 22, 2025, the 27-year-old Mississippi native and father of three shared a candid plea to fans: please respect his space when he’s out with his daughters.
A Father First
Known for his down-to-earth spirit and emotional performances, Roberts struck a sincere tone in the video, which showed him at home holding newborn daughter Gianna. He thanked his fans for their unwavering support but admitted that sudden fame has made public outings with his kids increasingly challenging.
“It’s okay to say hi,” he said, “but when I’m with my kids, sometimes it’s a lot for them. I just want that little bit of time to be just us.”
His daughters—Harmony, Lyric, and Gianna—are still adjusting to the attention that comes with having a famous father. Roberts explained that they’re often overwhelmed by fans asking for photos or shouting his name in public, and in those moments, he’s not just an artist—he’s a dad trying to protect his children.
A Viral Encounter and a Respectful Stand
He referenced a recent outing where security had to intervene after a fan grew upset when denied a photo. While Roberts understood the disappointment, he remained firm in his stance:
“If I’m out alone, I’ll take a picture with you. But when my kids are with me, just let me have that moment. We don’t get a lot of those.”
Faith, Family, and Humility
Roberts’ message resonated because it’s consistent with who he’s always been. Raised in a tight-knit, faith-based home in Meridian, Mississippi, he began singing in church at age two and later served as an usher and drummer. Before fame, he worked as a PE teacher and took pride in being a positive influence for the next generation.
Since winning American Idol with over 26 million votes, becoming the first Black male winner since Ruben Studdard in 2003, he’s stayed grounded—still paying his own bills, taking care of his children, and making time for the people who matter most.
“I appreciate y’all. Truly. I love the support. I just ask for understanding when I’m out with my babies. That’s all.”
On Carrie Underwood: “The Better Person Won”
Roberts also addressed online buzz surrounding Idol judge Carrie Underwood, whose feedback throughout the season was seen by some fans as lukewarm. At the BET 45th Anniversary Dinner, Roberts responded gracefully:
“Carrie is a country singer and she likes country music. I don’t think she likes every genre for real. She had her picks of who she really liked, and she stuck with it.”
Still, he acknowledged her right to her preferences and said he respected her honesty:
“We applaud her for sticking to her roots and sticking to who she liked. But I feel like the better person won.”
Underwood ultimately congratulated Roberts on Instagram after the finale, writing:
“Congratulations to the newest winner of @americanidol!!! I’m so proud of @officialjamalroberts and all he has accomplished this season and I can’t wait to see what mountains he climbs next!”
