Host Ryan Seacrest said there were 26 million votes cast, which broke a record and was twice as many as for last year's finale.

After a talent-packed 23rd season, America has crowned Jamal Roberts as the next “American Idol.” The 27-year-old P.E. teacher from Meridian, Mississippi clinched the title during Sunday‘s season finale, where he faced off against fellow finalists Breanna Nix and John Foster.

Breanna Nix, Jamal Roberts and John Foster made up this season's final three Jamal Roberts is the newest American Idol! During the season 23 finale on Sunday, May 18, Roberts was crowned the winner of the singing competition show.