For months, Richard Goodall has been winning over the judges and audience with his mesmerizing renditions of beloved songs like “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey and “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor. This has kept fans supporting him week after week.
It has been a lengthy journey to arrive at this point. When we first learned that Richard, a janitor at West Vigo Middle School, would be participating in “America’s Got Talent” (AGT), it all started back in May. His serenading of students in a TikTok video went viral, which led to this opportunity.
According to Goodall, “one of the kindergarten teachers approached me and mentioned that the video had received 100,000 views.” She responded that she didn’t even have 1,000 followers when I questioned if it was good. It had reached a million by the end of the weekend.
Goodall sailed straight to the quarterfinals after receiving the coveted Golden Buzzer from AGT judge Heidi Klum, something he was not allowed to reveal at the time.
Goodall won the quarterfinals and was greeted with open arms at his longtime employer, the school, upon his return. He spoke to the faculty and staff, sharing a motivational speech.
“You can achieve anything you set your mind to, no matter how old you are or how you look,” Goodall asserted. The color of your eyes or hair is irrelevant. Someone will ultimately notice you if you continue to work hard and hone your skill.”
He went on to the AGT semi-finals and the finale, where he won over even more judges’ hearts.
According to AGT judge Simon Cowell, “he’s a true hero, representing every underdog out there.” “He has touched my soul and my heart, and I’m sure he has touched everyone else at home who is watching.”
Even with all the attention, Goodall maintains her composure. “I will remain modest no matter where this journey takes me,” he continued.
You can see the announcement of Richard Goodall’s $1 million prize winning moment below. His journey has been nothing short of incredible.
