Meridian, Mississippi has reason to celebrate — and celebrate big. One of its own, 21-year-old Jamal Roberts, has officially claimed a spot in the Top 3 of American Idol 2025, bringing pride, passion, and powerhouse vocals straight from his Southern roots to America’s biggest stage.
The announcement came during Monday night’s electrifying episode of American Idol (May 13), which featured the show’s much-anticipated Disney Night. Roberts performed two Disney classics that left the judges speechless and the audience on their feet, securing him enough nationwide votes to earn a place in the season’s grand finale.
For Jamal, the journey from small-town Mississippi to national television has been nothing short of meteoric. A former church choir soloist with dreams bigger than his zip code, Roberts has used every moment on Idol to show the world who he is — not just as a singer, but as a storyteller, an artist, and a proud representative of his hometown.
His emotional rendition of “Go the Distance” from Hercules displayed the kind of vocal control and heart that instantly connects with viewers. But it was his high-energy take on “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” from The Lion King that showed America his versatility, his charisma, and the stage presence of a true star in the making. Lionel Richie called his performance “undeniable,” while Katy Perry praised him for “bringing fire and soul with every step.”
As Meridian residents gathered around their screens, social media erupted in celebration, with messages of support pouring in from local leaders, former classmates, neighbors, and fans across the country. Hashtags like #TeamJamal, #MeridianProud, and #JamalForTheWin have been trending on Twitter and Instagram since the episode aired.
“We’ve never seen anything like this,” said Diane Carter, one of Jamal’s former high school teachers. “He’s always had that spark — that light. But to see him shine on national television like this? It’s overwhelming in the best way.”
Roberts took to Instagram shortly after the episode to thank his supporters. “I’m speechless,” he wrote. “Mississippi, y’all showed up for me. This is OUR moment. I’ve never felt more seen, more loved, or more grateful. Let’s bring this home.”
And home is exactly where he’s headed next. As part of the show’s Top 3 tradition, Jamal will return to Meridian this week for a hometown hero’s welcome — complete with a community concert, media appearances, and a city-wide celebration before heading back to Los Angeles for the live finale.
The American Idol Season 23 finale airs Sunday, May 18, and while the competition is tight, there’s no doubt that Meridian is ready to rally behind Jamal one more time. For a young man who started singing in his church choir and never let go of his dream, the sky is no longer the limit — it’s just the beginning.
So turn up the volume, wave those banners, and get your votes ready. Jamal Roberts is not just a Top 3 finalist. He’s Meridian’s newest legend in the making.
