“I Can’t Wait”: Carrie Underwood Pens Heartfelt Message to New ‘American Idol’ Winner Jamal Roberts

Ahead of the season 23 finale of American Idol, country singer Luke Bryan shared his take on who he believed would win. Claiming he had a “Gut feeling”, he insisted, “My gut has told me Jamal has … [been] a lead all year.” At the end of the night, Ryan Seacrest revealed that Bryan was right as Roberts became the next American Idol. Completely blown away by his journey from audition to winner, the singer appeared shocked on stage as his family celebrated. With a cash prize and record deal, the future for Roberts is bright. And celebrating alongside him, Carrie Underwood posted a heartfelt message.

As Roberts stood on the stage, surrounded by gold confetti, judges Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan congratulated the singer on the victory. For Underwood, she found time to share a picture with Roberts. Even in the photo, Robert seemed somewhat stunned by the realization of winning American Idol.

Sharing a picture together, Underwood wrote in the caption, “Congratulations to the newest winner of @AmericanIdol !!! I’m so proud of Jamal Roberts and all he has accomplished this season and I can’t wait to see what mountains he climbs next!  He’s going to do great things!”

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Jamal Robert Thanks Fans For ‘American Idol’ Victory

Gaining love from Underwood was just the start as fans also showered Roberts with praise. “I am a country music lover from WAY back, but I’ve thought since day one that Jamal had a special once in a lifetime voice and absolutely deserved to win this show!!!!” Another person wrote, “Throughout this season, Jamal’s humble spirit and stage presence spoke for itself. He had dressed like he’d already won, he manifested this win. Not only was this win well deserved but this is just the beginning for him. We are rooting for you Jamal!!! Well done.”

After the lights went out, Roberts posted his own message on Instagram, thanking fans for their continued support. “From my first step on that stage to this unbelievable moment, I never dreamed a kid from my hometown would one day be called American Idol. This journey has been bigger than me, and I’m so grateful for every person who believed in me when I was just chasing a dream.”

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Being a father, Roberts couldn’t help but use the win as a teaching moment for his daughters, wanting them to see that all dreams are possible. “Most of all, I hope my girls see this and know that with faith, hard work, and heart, anything is possible. To my city, my family, and everyone out there grinding for something greater, this is our victory.”

(Photo by Christopher Willard/Disney via Getty Images)