What does the winner of American Idol actually walk away with? In the past, champions have driven off with shiny new cars and major music deals—but what about Season 23’s star, Jamal Roberts? While fans celebrate his big win, the buzz isn’t just about the trophy. The real chatter online? Everyone’s wondering: Is there something more than music between runner-up John Foster and top-three finalist Breanna Nix? Or did they just take home their titles—and leave the sparks on stage?

Jamal Roberts Wins Season 23 Of American Idol

The winner of American Idol‘s 23rd season was named on Sunday (May 18)—but what prize does he earn for being the newly crowned champion?

The three-hour American Idol finale featured performances from the judges, special guests, and the Top 3 finalists. John Foster, Breanna Nix, and Jamal Roberts opened the show by singing “We Are the Champions.”

Each singer performed two solos early in the show. Then, it was revealed that Breanna had come in third place. After that, Jamal and John each performed an additional solo and a duet.

John sang “Deeper Than the Holler” with Idol judge Luke Bryan. Jamal performed “Unpretty” and “Liar” with the show’s artist-in-residence, Jelly Roll.

The season’s winner was finally revealed at the end of the show. That’s when host Ryan Seacrest named Jamal as the new “American Idol!”

What’s The Prize For Winning American Idol?

Jamal joins a long list of prior Idol champions, including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Scotty McCreery, Iam Tongi, and Abi Carter. On top of the career boost and newfound fame associated with being an Idol winner, what will Jamal receive as a prize?

Each Idol winner earns a recording contract and a cash prize. However, the cash prize has varied since the show started in 2002, so the exact amount Jamal will earn is unknown. But we can make a guess based on prior seasons.

Maddie Pope, who won Season 16 of Idol in 2018, spoke with Business Insider about her cash prize. She said:

“You do get $250,000, but not really because of taxes. And you get half of it before you complete your record, and then the second half you get after you complete the record. So it’s just like an advance from the record deal, but I’m pretty sure I have to recoup it.”

A report from Newsweek seemingly confirms Maddie’s comments. The outlet reports:

“The winner of American Idol 2025 will receive a recording contract with Hollywood Records, along with significant industry exposure, mentorship opportunities, and a cash prize that has historically been in the range of $125,000 to $250,000. The winner often performs at major network events and may land brand endorsements or touring opportunities.”

Parade reports that Kelly Clarkson, who won the first season, allegedly earned a $1 million recording deal following her victory.

Additionally, past Idol winners have received cars and trophies. For example, Carrie Underwood earned a Ford Mustang when she won Season 4 in 2005. But the past few Idol winners have not earned a free car. Nothing was said about Jamal receiving a car for winning Season 23.

PEOPLE reports that there have never been confirmed numbers concerning what the second and third-place finishers receive as cash prizes, if anything. However, their success on the show often pays off as they receive offers from record companies and brands who want to work with them.

In the case of Season 23, winner Jamal and runner-up John both received a Disney Cruise Line vacation for four. They’ll set sail on the Disney Wish.

Congratulations to Jamal Roberts on his American Idol win! We can’t wait to see what the future has in store for him!