American Idol’s Jamal Roberts Shares Baby News Before Performing Fantasia’s “I Believe” — A Night Full of Heart and Hope

A powerful voice, a growing family, and a moment that touched millions on Idol’s Top 8 live show

Jamal Roberts, one of the standout stars of American Idol Season 23, delivered more than just a stunning vocal performance during the May 5, 2025 episode — he also shared a life-changing personal announcement that left fans emotional before he even sang a note.

 A New Baby Girl Joins the Roberts Family

During rehearsals for the popular Judges’ Song Contest, Jamal quietly became a father for the third time. In a touching backstage moment, he revealed:

“I did have a beautiful baby girl. It was so personal to me, I didn’t share it right away. But I have a healthy, beautiful baby girl that was born today.”

The newborn’s name is Gianna Grace Roberts, joining her big sisters, Harmoni and Lyrik, who proudly sat in the audience watching their dad’s emotional performance unfold.

 “I Believe” — A Song with New Meaning

For his Top 8 live performance, Jamal chose to sing “I Believe” by Fantasia, a powerhouse anthem originally performed by the Season 3 Idol winner. But for Jamal, the lyrics took on a whole new meaning.

“Right now, where I stand in this competition, it’s love that I feel lifting me higher, for real. It’s the love from my hometown, from my kids,” he shared.

The song was selected for him by judge Lionel Richie as part of the Judges’ Song Contest — though Jamal had guessed that Carrie Underwood was behind the powerful pick. Regardless, his delivery was heartfelt, confident, and deeply moving.

 Who Advanced to the Top 7?

Following a night of emotionally charged performances and over a million viewer votes, host Ryan Seacrest announced who would move forward:

✅ Jamal Roberts
✅ Slater Nalley
✅ Thunderstorm Artis

✅ Gabby Samone
✅ Breanna Nix
✅ John Foster

That left Mattie Pruitt and Josh King in the bottom two. After a tie in the judges’ song contest, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie were given the power to choose one finalist to save. Although they sought help from Carrie Underwood, she declined to cast a deciding vote.

Ultimately, the judges saved Mattie Pruitt, meaning Josh King was eliminated from the competition.

 What’s Next: Disney Night + Mother’s Day Tributes

The upcoming May 11 episode will feature a special Disney Night celebration, with the Top 7 contestants performing iconic Disney songs and paying tribute to their moms for Mother’s Day.

America will vote again, narrowing the field down to a Top 5, who will move on to Night #2 of Disney Week on May 12, mentored by none other than Lin-Manuel Miranda.

The American Idol 2025 finale is set to air on Sunday, May 18, where the Top 3 artists with the most votes will compete one last time for the crown.

American Idol Season 23 – Top 7 Contestants

Jamal Roberts

Slater Nalley

Thunderstorm Artis

Gabby Samone

Breanna Nix

John Foster

Mattie Pruitt (wildcard pick)

❌ Eliminated: Josh King