Richard Goodall has shared his plans for his $1 million prize, revealing that it will help him and his new wife, Angie, buy a home. However, what makes the America’s Got Talent champion’s story even more remarkable is a detail about his job that will surprise everyone!
After weeks of intense competition and moving performances, the beloved singing janitor from Terre Haute, Indiana, took home the title of America’s Got Talent Season 19 winner on Tuesday, September 24. His journey, which included receiving the Golden Buzzer from Heidi Klum, ended in a spectacular victory, leaving audiences amazed.
At 55 years old, Goodall not only won the prestigious title but also a $1 million prize, right after recently marrying his partner, Angie. During the show’s finale, he happily shared news of their wedding, adding to the celebratory moment. “My brain is just mush right now. Surreal doesn’t even cover it,” Goodall said in an emotional interview with PEOPLE. “This has been an absolute rollercoaster, and now it’s ended with golden dust everywhere.”
Ahead of the AGT finale, Goodall performed alongside members of Journey, singing “Don’t Stop Believin’,” the same song that won over the judges during his audition. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “I never thought I’d be on this stage with them. The audition was meant to be just for fun, and I never dreamed it would lead to this.”
As the finalists were narrowed down, tension built until host Terry Crews announced Goodall’s victory, bringing cheers from the audience. “This means everything to Angie and me,” Goodall said, speaking about his wife. “It allows us to start fresh, get a nice house, and give back to others.”
Visibly emotional, Heidi Klum praised Goodall, saying, “I’m beyond thrilled for him. I know this will change his life,” while also noting his dedication to his community and his work as a janitor, a job he plans to return to briefly before deciding on future plans with Angie.
Amid the whirlwind, Goodall humorously shared Angie’s response to his win: “She said, ‘I’m getting my house and a washer and dryer!’” But in all seriousness, he expressed gratitude for her unwavering support throughout his journey.
