Richard Goodall, a 55-year-old school janitor from Terre Haute, Indiana, captured the nation’s heart by winning Season 19 of America’s Got Talent (AGT) in 2024. His journey from a viral singing janitor to AGT champion is a testament to the power of following one’s passion.
Background
For over two decades, Goodall worked as a janitor at Chauncey Rose Middle School. Known for serenading students with his soulful renditions of classic rock songs, he gained widespread attention in 2022 when a video of him performing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” went viral. This unexpected fame set the stage for his future in music.
America’s Got Talent Journey
Encouraged by his newfound online popularity, Goodall auditioned for AGT in 2024. His heartfelt performance of “Don’t Stop Believin'” earned him the coveted Golden Buzzer from judge Heidi Klum, propelling him directly to the live shows. Throughout the competition, he continued to impress with songs like Michael Bolton’s “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” and Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger.” In the finale, Goodall delivered a powerful rendition of Journey’s “Faithfully” and had the unique opportunity to perform “Don’t Stop Believin'” alongside Journey members, including guitarist Neal Schon. His authentic performances and genuine passion resonated with audiences, leading to his well-deserved victory.
Life After AGT
Following his win, Goodall expressed intentions to remain grounded. He planned to continue his role as a janitor while exploring new opportunities that arose from his AGT success. In a heartfelt moment, he married his longtime partner, Angie Vanoven, in Pasadena, California, just days before the AGT finale. Goodall’s story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams and that talent can emerge from the most unexpected places.