Roberts competed against John Foster, 18, of Addis, Louisiana and Breanna Nix, 25, of Denton, Texas. After two rounds of performances, the three competitors stood on stage awaiting the third place announcement.

Meridian’s Jamal Roberts has sung his way into the history books — and the hearts of millions — as the newest winner of American Idol. Roberts was crowned champion during the show’s season finale on Sunday night, May 18, in front of more than 26 million viewers, the largest voting turnout in the show’s history.