Richard Goodall Wins America’s Got Talent 2024

In a thrilling conclusion to the 2024 season of “America's Got Talent,” Richard Goodall, a janitor from Indiana, emerged victorious, capturing the hearts of viewers with his powerhouse vocals. The paperboy hat-wearing vocalist, often referred to as the “singing janitor,” earned the top prize during the intense finale held on Tuesday night.

Goodall’s journey to the top was marked by memorable performances, including an emotional rendition of Journey‘s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” which initially wowed audiences during his audition. The finale saw Goodall face tough competition, with finalists such as Tanzanian acrobatic group Solange Kardinaly, Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi, and Japanese dance troupe AIRFOOTWORKS among others.

Towards the end of the night, the competition boiled down to Goodall and the Israeli dog performance duo Roni Sagi & Rhythm. The highly anticipated moment featured a collaborative performance where Goodall was joined on stage by Neal Schon and members of Journey, performing the iconic “Don’t Stop Believin’.”

During the competition, Richard Goodall captured America’s vote with a repertoire that included performances of Michael Bolton‘s “Said I Loved You But I Lied,” Survivor‘s “Eye of the Tiger,” and Journey’s “Faithfully.” Speaking to USA TODAY, Simon Cowell praised Goodall, stating, “You are our hero,” while fellow judge Howie Mandel predicted Goodall’s victory, exclaiming, “I think you just sang yourself $1 million. This is the winner.”

Goodall’s backstory adds to his charm—a janitor for 23 years in western Indiana, he took his first flight to audition for the popular NBC show. His musical journey commenced in the ’90s, participating in gospel trios until the COVID-19 pandemic curtailed those activities. A personal tragedy followed when his wife, Patty, passed away in 2021. Music, he shared, became a bridge for healing.

The night featured other high-energy performances and appearances by notable celebrities. Simone Biles, alongside other gymnasts from the Gold Over America Tour, entertained audiences with an array of flips and stunts. Magic Mike Live, and musical acts such as Andra Day and Michael Bublé, added to the star-studded showcase. Additionally, Steve Aoki joined the stage for an electrifying performance alongside finalists AIRFOOTWORKS.

The decision fell to a public vote, with excitement peaking as the results were announced. Goodall’s victory is set to bring a significant change in his life, as he plans to invest the $1 million prize to move into a retirement community in Florida, signifying a new chapter following his AGT journey.