40 Facts About Richard Goodall

Richard Goodall: The Unlikely Star of America's Got Talent

Richard Goodall, a 55-year-old janitor from Terre Haute, Indiana, has captured the hearts of millions with his incredible vocal talent and inspiring story. Despite being a humble janitor, Goodall has risen to fame on the 19th season of America's Got Talent (AGT), leaving audiences and judges alike in awe. Here are 40 fascinating facts about Richard Goodall:

Humble Beginnings

Richard's journey to stardom is rooted in his everyday life as a janitor. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and raw talent.

1. Richard Goodall is 55 years old and has been working as a janitor for 23 years at a middle school just a few blocks from his home.
2. Goodall first auditioned for AGT 15 years ago but didn’t make it past the preliminary rounds. However, a viral TikTok video of him singing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” at his middle school gave him a second chance.
3. The TikTok video, which reached 3 million views, caught the attention of Journey and Steve Perry, who commented on it. Steve Perry even shared the video on his social media, further boosting Goodall’s profile.
4. A producer saw the viral video and reached out to Goodall about auditioning for AGT. This led to Goodall booking a plane ticket to California for the first time in his life.

Golden Buzzer Moment

Richard's audition on AGT was nothing short of magical. His performance earned him a coveted Golden Buzzer, propelling him directly to the live shows.

5. Goodall’s audition performance of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” earned him Heidi Klum’s Golden Buzzer, moving him directly to the live shows.
6. Goodall often sings while on the clock to pass time and because of the positive response he gets from students and teachers. His performances are characterized by his heartfelt and soulful delivery.
7. Since his audition, Goodall’s fanbase has grown substantially. His performances have garnered over 1 million views on YouTube, with his audition video reaching 24 million views.
8. Goodall has drawn comparisons to Susan Boyle, who rose to fame on Britain’s Got Talent with her rendition of “I Dreamed A Dream” from Les Misérables. Both singers have achieved significant success without losing their humility and authenticity.

Support System

Richard's journey wouldn't be possible without the unwavering support of his students, family, and fans.

9. The support of the students, who call him Mr. Richard, was instrumental in Goodall’s decision to audition for AGT. This support has been a recurring theme throughout his journey on the show.
10. Goodall’s job as a janitor has been a significant part of his story. He often sings in the hallways to pass time and entertain the students, who have been his biggest supporters.
11. Goodall has been married for decades to Patty Goodall, who has been a huge supporter of his vocal talents. She often posts videos of him singing on Facebook.
12. Goodall is known for his humility and kindness. He remains grounded despite his newfound fame, often crediting his students and family for his success.

Memorable Performances

Richard's performances on AGT have been nothing short of spectacular, earning him praise from judges and fans alike.

13. In a semifinal episode of AGT, Goodall performed a slowed-down a cappella intro of Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger,” followed by a full-band performance. The dramatic and energetic performance earned him praise from the judges and audience.
14. Simon Cowell praised Goodall’s performance, saying, “There’s something ironic about the fact that you’ve chosen a real underdog song, and you are like the underdog in a way, but in a really positive way. And it was like you just got to the top of the steps.”
15. Sofia Vergara added, “I love that you picked such an iconic song. The people love you. It was amazing. I’m so happy for you. Enjoy this,” while Howie Mandel praised Goodall’s warmth throughout the season: “I’m pumped but not as big as the heart this guy has. You have the biggest heart in this whole competition. We feel the love, and we love you.”
16. Heidi Klum simply asked after the song: “Are you kidding me right now? Epic performance. I thought that you could not top what you did last time, but you topped it. America, you have to vote for Richard!”.

Fan Favorite

Richard has quickly become a fan favorite on AGT, with his performances often met with standing ovations and emotional reactions from the audience.

17. Goodall’s final performance on AGT aired on September 17, 2024, with the winner being revealed on September 18, 2024.
18. Goodall has become a fan favorite on AGT this season. His performances are often met with standing ovations and emotional reactions from the audience.
19. Despite not having formal vocal training, Goodall’s natural talent and dedication have allowed him to excel in the competition. His voice is described as smooth and impressive for a man in his mid-50s.
20. Some viewers have mixed opinions about Goodall’s voice, with some finding it underwhelming compared to more technically skilled singers. However, many appreciate his rags-to-riches story and the emotional impact of his performances.

Judges' Support

The judges have been vocal about their support for Richard throughout the season, praising his emotional connection and ability to entertain.

21. AGT is an entertainment show aimed at a broad audience. Goodall’s performances are often praised for their emotional connection and ability to entertain a wide range of viewers.
22. The judges have been vocal about their support for Goodall throughout the season. Heidi Klum’s Golden Buzzer was a significant moment in his journey, and the other judges have consistently praised his performances.
23. Goodall has had several emotional moments on the show, including when he received the Golden Buzzer and when he called his fiancée to share the news.
24. Goodall described his experience on AGT as a dream come true. He never imagined he would be performing on such a grand stage, especially given his humble background.

Community and Family Support

Richard's community and family have played a crucial role in his journey, providing him with the encouragement and motivation he needed.

25. The students at Goodall’s middle school have been incredibly supportive. They often watch his performances and share their excitement with him, which has been a source of motivation for him.
26. Goodall’s family, particularly his fiancée, has been a significant source of support. They have been proud of his progress and have encouraged him to pursue his dreams.
27. Despite his newfound fame, Goodall continues to work as a janitor. He remains grounded and connected to his community, which has been a key part of his story.
28. Goodall grew up loving music and listening to it endlessly as a kid. This passion for music has been a constant throughout his life, even during his years as a janitor.

Preparation and Performance

Richard's dedication to his craft is evident in his preparation and performances, which have captivated audiences and judges alike.

29. Goodall prepared for his audition by practicing his singing in the hallways of the middle school. He wanted to make sure he was ready for the big moment.
30. Despite his nerves, Goodall’s performance of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” was flawless. He seemed to shed his nerves as soon as he started singing, captivating the audience and judges alike.
31. When Goodall received the Golden Buzzer, he was showered with golden confetti. This moment was particularly emotional for him, as he had never imagined such a reaction.
32. After receiving the Golden Buzzer, Goodall was overcome with emotion. He called his fiancée to share the news, and Heidi Klum accompanied him backstage to celebrate.

Social Media Impact

Richard's journey has been significantly boosted by social media, with his viral video and endorsements from music legends.

33. Goodall’s performances have been highly engaging for fans. His ability to connect with the audience through his music has been a key factor in his success on the show.
34. The viral TikTok video of Goodall singing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” had a significant impact on social media. It reached millions of views and helped him gain widespread recognition.
35. Steve Perry, the lead singer of Journey, commented on Goodall’s video and shared it on his social media. This endorsement from a music legend further boosted Goodall’s profile.
36. Goodall’s performance of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” was a nod to the band’s legacy. The song has become an iconic anthem, and Goodall’s rendition captured its essence perfectly.

Iconic Performances

Richard's choice of songs and his unique renditions have made his performances memorable and iconic.

37. In a semifinal episode, Goodall performed Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger,” a song that has become synonymous with determination and perseverance. His slowed-down a cappella intro and full-band performance were highly praised by the judges and audience.
38. The song “Eye of the Tiger” is famously associated with the movie Rocky III. Goodall’s performance was seen as a nod to Sylvester Stallone’s character, who embodies the underdog spirit.
39. The judges were visibly moved by Goodall’s performance of “Eye of the Tiger.” Simon Cowell praised his choice of song, while Sofia Vergara and Howie Mandel expressed their admiration for his emotional delivery and heartwarming performance.
40. Heidi Klum’s reaction to Goodall’s performance was particularly enthusiastic. She praised his ability to top his previous performances and urged the audience to vote for him.

Richard Goodall's Inspiring Journey

Richard Goodall's rise from a humble janitor to a beloved contestant on America’s Got Talent is nothing short of remarkable. His story, filled with perseverance, humility, and raw talent, has touched the hearts of millions. From his viral TikTok video to earning Heidi Klum’s Golden Buzzer, Goodall’s journey showcases the power of never giving up on your dreams. His performances, characterized by heartfelt and soulful delivery, have garnered millions of views and widespread acclaim. Supported by his students, family, and a growing fanbase, Goodall remains grounded despite his newfound fame. Whether he wins AGT or not, his legacy as an inspiring underdog will continue to resonate. Richard Goodall’s story is a testament to the idea that with passion and perseverance, anyone can achieve greatness, no matter their background.