'American Idol' winner Jamal Roberts turns down key to Mississippi town after threats
New "American Idol" winner Jamal Roberts was recently given the key to one Alabama city, but he declined the honor for a Magnolia State town. Why?
The Mississippi man won Season 23 in May. He earned the most fan votes out of 26 million cast. Host Ryan Seacrest said it was the "biggest finale vote in show history," according to PEOPLE magazine.
Top 3 contestant Jamal Roberts performs during the second Disney Night episode on "American Idol" Season 23 which aired Monday, May 12 on ABC.
What to know about the city key
At a June show in Atmore, Alabama, Roberts said the town "made us feel like we were at home" and gave him and his kids a key to the city.
Shortly afterward, Drake Paige posted on social media that Laurel Mayor Johnny Magee gave him permission to give Roberts a key at the Noir & Blanc concert on Aug. 2.
Backlash was swift.
He said there had been negative comments and threats, including people saying they'll bring guns. Roberts said some were angry because he doesn't live there and listed others who they say live in the area and deserve the honor.
"Y'all should get it and give it to them, somebody that's deserving, I guess," he said. "You know, been working in the community for years. But I don't want it."
He said he politely declines. He said he thanks the mayor, "but, respectfully, keep it."
Roberts still plans to perform at the upcoming event.
The city has a population of about 16,900 and is between Hattiesburg and Meridian. It's known for its history, architecture and Southern charm. Ben and Erin Napier made the town a national name with their show "Home Town."
The Clarion-Ledger has reached out to the mayor's office for comment.
What to know about Jamal Roberts
The Meridian native is also a girl dad to three daughters: Harmoni, Lyrik and newborn Gianna.
Roberts is the second winner from Mississippi. He'd tried out for the show twice before coming back and winning it all.
When can I see him sing in Mississippi?
Roberts has 2025 Mississippi concerts listed on Eventbrite before the national tour starts in the fall.
Shows include:
- Noir & Blanc: 8 p.m. Aug. 2 at L.T. Ellis Center, 610 Munson St., Laurel.
- Jamal Roberts: 4 p.m. Aug. 24 at Kandy Factory Event Center, 1203 North Jackson St., Crystal Springs.
- An Evening with Jamal Roberts: 7-10 p.m. Sept. 19 at the Jackson Convention Complex Center, 105 East Pascagoula St., Jackson.
He's also listed as a headliner at the Ironhorse Music & Heritage Festival along with Keke Wyatt and MaKenzie Thomas. The event is Sept. 20 in McComb.
See photos of Jamal Roberts on 'American Idol'
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This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: 'American Idol' winner Jamal Roberts turns down key to Mississippi town after threats
