When Richard Goodall stepped onto the stage of America’s Got Talent, he immediately captured the hearts of millions with his heartfelt performance and unassuming presence. As a 53-year-old janitor from Terre Haute, Indiana, Goodall’s journey from cleaning classrooms to performing in front of a live audience was nothing short of inspiring. But behind his soulful rendition of “Imagine” by John Lennon and his viral moment lies a deeper story of resilience, passion, and a life dedicated to more than just the music.

Here’s what America’s Got Talent didn’t tell you about Richard Goodall.

1. A Life of Service and Humility

While his AGT appearance highlighted his musical talents, Richard’s life has been defined by his role in his community. As a janitor at Vigo County School Corporation, Richard has been more than just the person who keeps the school clean. He’s built lasting relationships with both students and teachers, often serving as a mentor, friend, and source of positivity in the lives of many.

His humility on stage, evident in his modest demeanor and surprise at the audience’s overwhelming reaction, is a reflection of how he’s lived his life. Richard didn’t chase fame; he wanted to share his passion for music and inspire others.

2. A Lifelong Dream Deferred

Goodall’s love for music has been a constant throughout his life, though it wasn’t always at the forefront of his career. Like many aspiring musicians, life’s responsibilities took precedence, and his dream of becoming a performer was placed on hold for years. But that dream never died. From performing in local churches to singing in small community events, Richard continued to hone his craft, waiting for the right moment to share his voice with the world.

His decision to audition for America’s Got Talent was born out of a desire to prove that it’s never too late to chase your dreams, no matter your age or occupation.

3. A Viral Sensation Before AGT

Long before his audition aired, Richard had already experienced a taste of viral fame. In 2022, a video of him singing in an empty school gymnasium was uploaded to social media by one of the school’s staff members. In the video, Richard’s voice echoed through the halls as he delivered an impromptu performance of “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston. The video garnered millions of views, sparking interest in the janitor with the powerful voice.

This viral moment ultimately led to his decision to audition for AGT, encouraged by friends, family, and strangers who recognized his unique talent.

4. The Music That Shaped Him

Though his cover of John Lennon’s “Imagine” was the song that introduced him to a global audience, Goodall’s musical influences run deep. He’s drawn inspiration from a range of legendary artists, including Elton John, Billy Joel, and Whitney Houston. His love for timeless classics and the stories behind them has shaped his performance style, making him a versatile vocalist capable of connecting with audiences of all ages.

What AGT didn’t showcase is how much time and dedication Richard has spent studying these artists, not just to mimic them, but to bring his own authenticity and emotion to each performance.

5. A Role Model for the Next Generation

One of the most touching aspects of Richard’s journey is how his story resonates with young people. For many students at his school, Richard isn’t just the janitor who sings — he’s living proof that dreams are worth pursuing, even if they take longer to achieve than expected. He’s often shared words of encouragement with students, reminding them that their goals are valid, no matter how improbable they may seem.

In the aftermath of his AGT appearance, Richard has received countless messages from young people who view him as an inspiration. His response? Humility and gratitude, always deflecting the attention away from himself and focusing on the positive impact his story is having on others.

6. The Road Ahead

While America’s Got Talent opened the door to national recognition, Richard Goodall remains the same humble man he was before his audition. His future is undoubtedly bright, with offers to perform at larger venues and possible recording opportunities on the horizon. But for Richard, it’s not about the fame or the money — it’s about continuing to do what he loves and using his platform to inspire others.

In a world that often prioritizes instant success, Richard’s story is a reminder that some dreams take time. And sometimes, the most unexpected heroes emerge from the most ordinary of places.

Richard Goodall may have taken the America’s Got Talent stage as a janitor with a dream, but he left as a beacon of hope, reminding us all that it’s never too late to follow your heart and that extraordinary talent can be found in the most unexpected places.