Middle School Janitor Richard Goodall Crowned the Winner of 'America's Got Talent' on NBC

Inspiring Singer From Terre Haute, Indiana, Earns Coveted $1 Million Grand Prize




America has voted for the talented singer, Richard Goodall, as the winner of “America’s Got Talent” season 19.



Goodall, affectionately known as the singing janitor, won America’s hearts and votes for his authenticity, passion and raw talent, taking home the $1 million grand prize tonight. His performances on the series have earned more than 130 million video views across social platforms.



Goodall stole America's hearts during his “AGT” audition with his incredible rendition of "Don't Stop Believin',” earning him a coveted Golden Buzzer from judge Heidi Klum. During the qualifiers round, Goodall shared an emotional delivery of Michael Bolton’s “How Am I Supposed To Live Without You,” receiving high praises and a standing ovation from the judges. He returned to the semifinals with a cover of “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, solidifying his spot in the finals. For his unforgettable finale performance, Goodall shared his own take on Journey’s “Faithfully,” delivering a soulful and emotional moment. In a full circle moment, Goodall performed alongside legendary guitarist Neal Schon and members of Journey in tonight’s finale results show.



Klum praised his finale performance: “I have faithfully been your biggest fan since the very first moment we met” and shared “I want you to win this so bad, Richard.” Howie Mandel said, “I think you just sang yourself $1 million.” Simon Cowell chimed in, “We all need a hero right now, and you are our hero.”

On his victory, Goodall said, “Winning ‘AGT’ is important and means so much to me. Simon said two minutes can change your life. It has transformed mine, and I’d like to help others, one song at a time.”

For more photos of the winner, click here.



Born in Indianapolis, Ind., and raised in Terre Haute since the age of 5, Goodall embodies the fulfillment of a dream as he finally pursues his lifelong passion of singing on “AGT.” From performing for the students at the middle school where he works, to performing at church and with a band, singing has always been a constant. As a performer, he considers himself raw, unpolished and down to earth, distinguishing himself through his genuine connection to music. He believes television chooses you, rather than the other way around.



Season 19 of “America’s Got Talent” concluded tonight with a show-stopping finale at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium with judges Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, Heidi Klum and host Terry Crews. The show’s star-studded finale featured the top 10 finalists performing alongside memorable guests Simone Biles & the Gold Over America Tour, award-winning, multi-platinum entertainer Michael Bublé, legendary guitarist Neal Schon and members of Journey, world-renowned DJ and producer Steve Aoki, acclaimed stand-up comedian Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias, the electrifying cast of “Magic Mike Live” Las Vegas, singer-songwriter Andra Day and “AGT” fan favorite Detroit Youth Choir.

For the 19th year in a row, “America’s Got Talent” was summer’s most watched broadcast alternative show.




“America’s Got Talent” was created by Simon Cowell and is co-produced by Fremantle and Syco Entertainment. Simon Cowell, Sam Donnelly and Jason Raff are the executive producers. 








Auditions for the 20th season of “America’s Got Talent” are currently underway. Interested acts can visit www.AGTAuditions.com to submit a video online or to receive updates about the upcoming in-person open call auditions.