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‘American Idol’ Winner Jamal Roberts Declines Key to Laurel, Faces Backlash and Death Threats
Jamal Roberts, the newly crowned winner of American Idol season 23, has found himself at the center of a storm after declining a ceremonial key to the city of Laurel, Mississippi. The 27-year-old R&B and gospel singer from Meridian made the decision following fierce local backlash — including death threats — after news of the planned honor surfaced.
The controversy erupted on June 27, 2025, when local organizer Drake Page announced on Facebook that Laurel Mayor Johnny Magee had approved the presentation of the key during Roberts’ upcoming concert on August 2. While the gesture was intended to celebrate his success and Mississippi roots, critics argued Roberts had no meaningful ties to Laurel.
“He ain’t from Laurel. Jamal Roberts is from Meridian,” one social media user complained, echoing a wave of hostile comments. The rhetoric quickly escalated, with some individuals threatening to bring firearms to the event.
Roberts, who says he had no knowledge of the plan beforehand, addressed the uproar in an emotional Facebook Live. “I did not ask for a key to the city,” he said. “If y’all feel like it should go to somebody else, that’s fine. Give it to them. I don’t want it out of respect.” Still, Roberts affirmed that he would not cancel his Laurel performance. “It ain’t stopping nothing,” he declared, emphasizing his commitment to fans.
Roberts’ journey to stardom has been one of perseverance. A former P.E. teacher in Meridian, he auditioned for Idol three times before breaking through in 2025 with a standout rendition of Rick James’ “Mary Jane.” His finals performance of Anthony Hamilton’s “Her Heart” earned him a record-breaking 26 million votes — the highest in Idol history. His victory marked the first Black male winner since Ruben Studdard in 2003.
Since his win, Roberts has released his debut single “Heal” (which topped the Billboard Hot Gospel Songs chart) and secured an opening slot on Brandy and Monica’s The Boy Is Mine tour this fall. He also scheduled a string of home-state performances, including the now-controversial Laurel show.
In light of the threats, security has been heightened. Roberts shared a July 9 Instagram post showing himself being escorted by police at a recent Arkansas concert. His decision to move forward has been widely praised as courageous.
The situation has sparked broader discussions about celebrity recognition, local pride, and race. While some residents insist the key should honor long-standing contributors to Laurel, others view the hostility toward Roberts — only the second Black male to win Idol — as evidence of deeper issues.
Through it all, Roberts is leaning on resilience. He plans to release a new single, “Mississippi,” on July 24 as a tribute to his home state. “America voted for me, so they expect to see something,” he told American Songwriter. “I’ve got the motivation to work hard, and I’m prepared.”
Despite the turmoil, Roberts’ star continues to rise. Fans across the country have rallied around him, flooding his pages with support. As one follower commented, “It’s unfortunate you had to deal with this, but you’re showing the world what Mississippi is really about.”