How did school custodian Richard Goodall become a rock star almost overnight? He captured fans’ hearts on Season 19 of America’s Got Talent (AGT)! It was all about “taking small chances,” said Goodall, in an interview with TV Insider.
Goodall’s journey began at West Vigo Elementary School, in Terre Haute, Ind., where he earned the affectionate nicknames the “singing janitor” and “Mr. Richard.” In 2022, he performed at a school talent show, belting out the 1980s anthem “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey. As soon as he launched into the first verse, the atmosphere transformed. Soon students were on their feet and dancing.
When a teacher shared a video of Goodall’s performance on social media, it quickly amassed millions of views. Former Journey front man Steve Perry even commented on the post. Before long, AGT’s producers took notice and invited Goodall to audition for celebrity judges Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum, Sofia Vergara, and Simon Cowell.
Mr. Richard’s dream comes true
When Cowell asked Goodall to share his big dream, his response was simple and heartfelt: “I love to sing.” And sing he did, prompting Klum to hit the golden buzzer, which propelled Goodall from the audition stage straight to the quarterfinals.
“I’ve been singing in the halls for 23 years,” Goodall said during the competition. “I know how lucky I am to be here, and it’s not wasted on me.”
His soaring performances of Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger” and Michael Bolton’s “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” advanced him to the finale, which aired on Sept. 17.
Goodall capped off the season with another Journey classic, “Faithfully,” leaving both the audience and the judges
in awe.
Klum said, “You are such an amazing man—so humble and so kind. You’re a bit quiet, but not when you’re behind the microphone; then you’re a big rock star.” She added, “I want you to win this so badly, Richard.”
Cowell chimed in: “We all need a hero right now, and you are our hero.”
“You do what you do and don’t think it’s special,” said Goodall. “This is the kind of stuff you see in movies.”
After he won the grand prize, he shared, “My life has been transformed.”
