Jamal Roberts Welcomes New Daughter Amid American Idol Journey

MERIDIAN, Mississippi — Jamal Roberts, a contestant on “American Idol” Season 23, celebrated a significant personal milestone just before advancing to the show’s top seven. On May 5, 2025, Roberts revealed on air that he had welcomed a baby girl hours before his performance.

During a lighthearted segment on the show, Roberts played a game called “Two Truths and a Lie,” sharing three statements: he is a master flautist, he has a new baby, and he can swim underwater but not on top. The truths? Roberts is an aquatic swimmer and welcomed his third child, whom he named Gianna Grace Adams.

“I did have a beautiful baby girl. It was so personal to me that I did not share it right away, but I have a healthy, beautiful baby girl that was born today,” Roberts said, beaming with pride. His two older daughters, Harmoni and Lyrik, who are six and four, have become fans of their father’s American Idol journey.

As part of the live show, Roberts performed “I Believe” by Fantasia, a choice that resonated deeply with him. He connected the song’s message to his life as an elementary school teacher and a father of three. “Right now, where I stand in this competition, it’s love that has lifted me higher. It’s the love for my hometown and my kids,” he explained.

His heartfelt rendition moved both the audience and celebrity judges, with Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan visibly emotional. “You had everyone in this room crying,” Richie said. Following the performance, the audience responded with a standing ovation, ensuring Roberts would advance in the competition.

He gathered enough support from fans, receiving over a million votes to secure a place in the top seven, alongside fellow contestants Breanna Nix, John Foster, Gabby Samone, Thunderstorm Artis, and Slater Nalley. The judges later saved Mattie Pruett, eliminating Josh King from the show.

Before leaving the stage, host Ryan Seacrest asked Roberts to share a message for his newborn daughter. “Daddy will always be there for you. Always,” he said, a sentiment that exemplifies his dedication as a father. Viewers can continue to follow Roberts on “American Idol” airing new episodes on ABC.