The Singing Janitor's Fairytale: Who Won America's Got Talent Season 19 And Where Are They Now?

The most recent winner of *America's Got Talent* is Richard Goodall, the beloved "singing janitor" from Terre Haute, Indiana, who captured the hearts of millions to win Season 19 in 2024. His incredible journey from cleaning school hallways to performing on the world's biggest talent stage culminated in a spectacular victory, proving that dreams have no expiration date and talent can be found anywhere. As of the current date, December 18, 2025, Richard Goodall has become a powerful symbol of the show’s enduring appeal, bringing his humble, authentic voice to the forefront of American entertainment.

Goodall’s victory was a classic underdog story, distinguishing him as the first singer to win the competition in five years, following Kodi Lee in Season 14. His triumph over nine other incredible finalists cemented his place as a fan-favorite, earning him the grand prize of $1 million and a headlining show in Las Vegas. His simple, yet powerful, performances of classic rock anthems resonated deeply with the audience, making him one of the most memorable winners in the show's history.

Richard Goodall: The Singing Janitor's Complete Profile and AGT Journey

Richard Goodall's path to the *America's Got Talent* stage is a testament to perseverance and passion. Before his life-changing audition, he was a dedicated school janitor whose primary audience was the students and staff at his workplace.

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• Full Name: Richard Goodall
• Born: 1969 (Age 55 at the time of win)
• Place of Birth: Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
• Hometown: Terre Haute, Indiana
• Profession Before AGT: School Janitor/Custodian
• AGT Season: Season 19 (2024)
• Golden Buzzer: Received from judge Heidi Klum
• Winning Prize: $1,000,000 and a headlining show in Las Vegas

Goodall's journey began with a viral TikTok presence where he posted short clips of himself singing. This online following gave him the confidence to audition for the main stage. His initial performance of Journey's iconic track, "Don't Stop Believin'," was so emotionally resonant that it prompted judge Heidi Klum to smash the Golden Buzzer, sending him straight to the live shows.

Throughout the competition, Richard Goodall consistently delivered powerful rock and power ballad performances, showcasing a voice that seemed tailor-made for stadium stages. His song choices were strategic, tapping into a deep well of nostalgia and raw emotion that connected with the voting public.

The Golden Buzzer Audition and Winning Performance

The moment Richard Goodall first walked onto the *America's Got Talent* stage, he was just a humble janitor. By the time he finished his audition, he was a superstar. His performance of "Don't Stop Believin'" was not just a song; it was a powerful declaration of hope. The judges—Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, and especially Heidi Klum—were visibly moved by his authenticity and vocal talent.

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Heidi Klum, who is known for her discerning taste, described his voice as "incredible" and immediately pressed the Golden Buzzer, showering him in gold confetti and securing his spot in the semi-finals. This moment quickly became one of the most talked-about auditions of the season, setting the stage for his eventual victory.

In the Season 19 Finals, Goodall chose another classic rock masterpiece: Journey's "Faithfully." This performance was a masterclass in vocal control and heartfelt delivery, solidifying his status as the frontrunner. The finale even saw him perform alongside members of the legendary band Journey, including Neal Schon, bringing his journey full circle from singing their songs in a school hallway to sharing a stage with them.

The AGT Season 19 Finalists: A Look at the Competition

Richard Goodall faced stiff competition in the Season 19 finale. The competition showcased a diverse range of world-class talents, from mesmerizing dog acts to high-tech drone shows. The depth of talent in 2024 made Goodall's win even more impressive.

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The final results were announced by host Terry Crews, with the top contenders representing a global mix of performers. The runner-up, Roni Sagi & Rhythm, a captivating dog act, came incredibly close to taking the title.

Top 5 Finalists of America's Got Talent Season 19 (2024)

The final night saw ten acts compete for the $1 million prize. The top five, in order of finish, were:

• Winner: Richard Goodall (Singer)
• 2nd Place (Runner-up): Roni Sagi & Rhythm (Dog Act)
• 3rd Place: Sky Elements (Drone Group)
• 4th Place: Solange Kardinaly (Magician)
• 5th Place: Dee Dee Simon (Vocalist)

Other notable finalists included the aerial act Sebastian & Sonia and the dance groups Airfootworks and Brent Street, all of whom delivered memorable, high-octane performances throughout the season. The variety of acts underscored the truly global nature of the *America's Got Talent* franchise.

Richard Goodall's Life and Career After the $1 Million Win

Winning $1 million is a life-altering event for anyone, but Richard Goodall's reaction to his newfound fame and fortune was perhaps the most surprising aspect of his post-AGT life. Despite the massive prize, Goodall has maintained a refreshing sense of normalcy and humility.

In the months following his victory, the "singing janitor" returned to his job as a school custodian in Terre Haute, Indiana. He publicly stated that he never intended to become a major celebrity and remains the same person he was before winning the show. This decision resonated with his fans, who appreciated his grounded nature.

However, his career has certainly taken off. While he continues his work at the school, Richard Goodall has been actively booking more and more performances across the country. He has transitioned into a professional singer, performing at various events and venues, utilizing the platform provided by *America's Got Talent* to share his gift with a wider audience. His focus is on performing and connecting with people through music, staying true to his roots while embracing his new opportunities.

The story of Richard Goodall is a powerful reminder of the American Dream, proving that a simple, heartfelt talent can overcome any obstacle. His journey from an ordinary school janitor to the winner of *America's Got Talent* Season 19 will be remembered as one of the most inspirational in the show’s long history. His success continues to inspire aspiring performers and everyday people alike to never stop believing in their own potential.