“No, I haven’t received it. Don’t know where it is,”
Roberts told Us Weekly in an exclusive interview on May 27.
“I’m interested in knowing,” he added with a laugh.
No Splurging in Sight — Here’s His Plan for the Money
Once the $250,000 cash prize does arrive, Roberts says don’t expect to see him buying luxury cars or taking extravagant shopping sprees.
“I’m gonna put it in the bank,” the 27-year-old singer said.
A practical response from a man whose life has suddenly changed — but whose mindset remains grounded.
From Underdog to Idol
Roberts won America’s heart — and the Idol crown — on May 18, triumphing over finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix. While only Roberts receives the monetary grand prize, both he and Foster were awarded a Disney Wish cruise vacation for four, featuring five-star dining, immersive entertainment, and a stay on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
A Win for His Daughters
Roberts isn’t just a rising star — he’s also a devoted dad to three young daughters: Harmoni, Lyrik, and Gianna.
“All they know is, ‘Daddy win.’ That’s what they say,” Roberts shared, smiling.
“They don’t really understand what was going on. They just knew I was gone for a while… and then I came back — and I won.”
He describes the moment he was announced as the winner as completely surreal:
“I say it to myself every day, ‘Did I just… win American Idol?’ It doesn’t feel real. It’s been a dream — and now it’s reality.”
From Stage Lights to Fish Sandwiches
While some stars might pop champagne or hit red carpets, Roberts chose to celebrate in his own humble way.
“I got me a hot fish sandwich,” he laughed.
“Then I went to get my babies so we could spend time together.”
Now back in his hometown of Meridian, Mississippi, Roberts is enjoying quiet moments with his family before heading to Nashville next month for CMA Fest.
“They have my whole heart,” he said about his daughters — including baby Gianna, who’s just 3 weeks old.
What’s Next?
Although the prize money hasn’t landed yet, Jamal Roberts isn’t waiting around — he’s already making plans for the future, starting with his appearance at CMA Fest. But at his core, he’s still a small-town guy with a big voice, a bigger heart, and a grounded perspective.