The new season of America’s Got Talent premiered on May 28 and it did not disappoint! The standout moment? Richard Goodall, a shy janitor from Indiana, brought everyone to tears with his incredible performance.
Richard Goodall, known as Mr. Richard to the kids at Chauncey Rose Middle School, took the stage with hopes of impressing the judges. Singing a cover of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'”, Richard captivated the audience with his voice, reminiscent of Steve Perry. The performance left everyone astounded.
An Incredible Reaction from the Judges
After the performance ended, all four America’s Got Talent judges gave a standing ovation to Richard. Simon Cowell was particularly impressed, saying:
Richard, you are my hero because that was special, genuinely special. I think America is going to love you.
Sofia Vergara and Howie Mandel agreed, with Howie joking:
Maybe it’s because you’ve been doing it for 23 years, but you just cleaned up! I would imagine that every kid who’s ever been in a school with you is just screaming.
A Life-Changing Moment
But it was Heidi Klum who delivered the most impactful moment. She expressed her amazement before hitting the Golden Buzzer:
We all had the best time with you up there on that stage. I really, really feel something when I see you up there and hear you up there, and now this is what I’m gonna do for you because I love you.
And just like that, gold glitter fell from the ceiling. Overwhelmed with emotion, Richard broke down in tears on stage.
An Unexpected Journey
This golden moment came after what has been an extraordinary journey for Richard:
The Indiana native shared that he had traveled from his hometown to showcase his singing abilities. As a janitor in middle school, he would sing for the kids, and his friends and fiancée encouraged him to audition.
A Remarkable Plane Ride
Richard shared how taking his first-ever plane ride was a surreal experience, saying it felt like a dream come true:
Richard Goodall’s first-ever plane ride led him straight to a Golden Buzzer-worthy performance! Richard’s cover of “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey impressed Heidi Klum and his dreams really did take flight!
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