On May 14, 2025, American Idol finalist Jamal Roberts returned to Meridian, Mississippi, for an unforgettable hometown visit filled with love, pride, and a deeply personal milestone—meeting his newborn daughter, Gianna Grace Roberts, for the very first time.
The 27-year-old physical education teacher at Crestwood Elementary was greeted by excited students, family members, and friends as he celebrated making it into the Top 3 of Idol Season 23. But amid the cheers and community celebrations, the most profound moment came when he held baby Gianna, born in early May while Roberts was competing live in Los Angeles.
During the May 5 live broadcast, Roberts had stunned fans and judges alike by announcing the birth of his daughter, a revelation he had kept private until that moment. A brief photo of Gianna at the hospital was shown, but it wasn’t until late on May 16 that Roberts shared his first personal images of his newborn on Instagram.
The post opened with a touching photo of Gianna dressed in a ladybug outfit, accompanied by an emotional caption:
“Hey world, meet my little ladybug 😩, Gianna Grace Roberts. I’m so proud to be her father 😭 #girldadforlife #idol”
He followed up with a heart-melting image of Gianna in a custom t-shirt featuring photos of Jamal performing on American Idol, emblazoned with the words:
“My Dad is the Next American Idol”
“Vote Jamal Roberts — Meridian Proud, Meridian Strong, Meridian United.”
A third snapshot showed the infant peacefully sleeping, wearing a lavender and cream outfit complete with a matching pacifier.
Roberts, who had not previously announced that a baby was on the way, told the audience during the May 5 show,
“It was so personal to me, I did not share it. But I have a healthy, beautiful, baby girl born today.”
The birth of Gianna makes Roberts a proud father of three daughters, joining big sisters Harmoni, 6, and Lyrik, 3—both of whom have been regulars in the Idol audience and were front and center during his hometown celebration, parade, and concert in Meridian. The emotional footage from his visit, including his first moments with Gianna, will air during the highly anticipated American Idol finale on May 19, when Roberts competes against fellow finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix.
Roberts continues to win over fans not only with his powerhouse vocals and electrifying stage presence but with the authenticity, humility, and heart he brings to every step of his journey. Now, with his daughters by his side and a new baby in his arms, Jamal Roberts heads into the finale carrying the hopes of a hometown—and the love of a growing family.
