Richard Goodall overcame personal loss, finding solace and inspiration in music.
His journey led him to victory on season 19 of America’s Got Talent.
Following his win, his net worth saw a significant increase, now estimated to be between $500,000 and $700,000 after taxes on his prize money.
Key Takeaways
- Richard Goodall was a janitor at West Vigo Middle School for 23 years.
- Goodall won AGT Season 19, receiving $1 million and a brand-new car with his mesmerizing singing.
Richard Goodall’s journey from a humble janitor to a millionaire is nothing short of inspiring.
Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Richard moved to Terre Haute, Indiana, at a young age and was adopted by Virginia M. Goodall.
His love for music blossomed in his formative years.
He spent countless hours in his upstairs bedroom, engaging himself in the sounds of Journey, Foreigner, Bob Seger, Aerosmith, and more while jamming on his RadioShack stereo with daisy-chained speakers for surround sound.
After graduating from North Vigo High School in 1987, Richard entertained in country karaoke competitions and later launched into gospel bands.
However, tragedy struck during the COVID-19 pandemic, as he lost his beloved wife, Patty, of 30 years, to kidney cancer.
Surrounded by despair, a friend encouraged him to reconnect with his passion for music.
Following this advice, Richard found comfort in rock karaoke and, in a beautiful twist of fate, found love again with Angie Vanoven, who became his enthusiastic supporter.
The TikTok Video That Changed Everything for Richard
A turning point came when a video of Richard performing a Journey classic, “Don’t Stop Believin‘,” at the middle school where he worked for 23 years, went viral on TikTok.
@officialhowiemandel #duet with @Cover Nation #Singing @America’s Got Talent ♬ original sound – Cover Nation
This newfound attention caught the eye of Howie Mandel, a judge on America’s Got Talent (AGT), who guided Richard to audition for the show.
With support from his fiancée, Angie, as well as students and teachers, Richard took the leap and auditioned for AGT.
His soulful voice and undeniable talent earned him the dream golden buzzer from Heidi Klum.
After that, Richard’s performances captured the hearts of millions, pushing him to the winner’s circle of AGT Season 19.
As a janitor for 23 years, Richard’s annual income was assumed to be approximately $30,000 yearly.
However, with his AGT win and prizes, including a brand-new car from country pop star Walker Hayes, Richard’s net worth is estimated to be between $500,000 and $700,000 after taxes.
His rags-to-riches story proves the power of strength, passion, and determined support from loved ones and the community.
Live in Canada and wished I could have voted for him. Obviously, I didn’t need to. The world is yours Richard and Angie. Enjoy life to it’s fullest!