‘AGT’s “Singing Janitor” Richard Goodall Inks Movie Deal For His Life Story

EXCLUSIVE: After winning America’s Got Talent and its $1 million prize, “singing janitor” Richard Goodall has won again. He’s at the center of a deal with Everard Entertainment and Mad Chance to turn his impossible story into a feature film. Everard’s Ben Everard and Mad Chance’s Andrew Lazar are producing.

Goodall had toiled 23 years as a janitor in a Terre Haute, Indiana, middle school when the 55-year old hopped a flight for the first time in his life, and took the AGT stage in Los Angeles. Well, it’s probably better if you watch it than have me describe it:

“Don’t Stop Believin’” is about as tough a song to sing as there is, but Goodall hit all those impossible high-register Steve Perry notes and tore the roof off the place. He initially was discovered by AGT judge Howie Mandell from a viral social media post of Goodall singing to an assembly event at his middle school. That moment propelled the AGT team to reach out and invite him to audition, but he hardly fit the physical mold or age to become a pop sensation.

“Richard Goodall’s unbelievable journey from sweeping hallways to the center of television’s biggest stage is the epitome of the American dream,” said Everard. “Like the millions worldwide, I was captivated the moment he stepped foot on that audition stage. Bringing his journey to the silver screen is an honor we take seriously.”

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Said Lazar: “Goodall’s story is one of never giving up on your dreams, no matter what your circumstances are or your age. No doubt this film will resonate with audiences around the world.”

The script is written by Chris Parizo, twice featured on the Black List for Viceland in 2020 and Kazan in 2023. He is represented by Chris Riddenhour at IAG and John Zaozirny at Bellevue Productions.

Founded in 2023, Everard Entertainment’s upcoming slate includes Apple/Skydance’s Way of the Warrior Kid, starring Chris Pratt and directed by McG, which is releasing on Apple TV on November 25. Everard also produced the forthcoming Amazon film The Man with the Bag, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Alan Ritchson, and Awkwafina, which is releasing on Prime Video on December 2. Everard is repped by Linda Lichter of Lichter Grossman.

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Mad Chance recently produced Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice for 20th, as well as G20 for Amazon MGM. Lazar just wrapped filming on Dinner with Audrey, directed by Abe Sylvia and starring Thomasin McKenzie and Ansel Elgort, as well as the crime thriller Kockroach, directed by Matt Ross and starring Chris Hemsworth and Taron Edgerton.

Mad Chance also has a history of making strong biopics: Nyad, American Sniper, I Love You Phillip Morris and George and Tammy.

There is a history for films about unlikely game show winners: Paul Potts’ story of going from a bullied shop assistant to an opera singer overnight after appearing on Britain’s Got Talent was turned into the film One Chance. Future late-night host James Corden played Potts in the 2013 film.

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