The 2024 season of America’s Got Talent (AGT) has kept audiences on the edge of their seats with thrilling performances, heartwarming stories, and a showcase of incredible talent. One contestant who has captured the hearts of millions is Richard Goodall, the former school janitor who rose to fame with his stunning vocal performances. As he heads into the final stages of the competition, there’s more than just talent at play—there’s a $1 million prize on the line. However, a recent announcement about the AGT prize money structure has left both fans and contestants wondering: will Goodall and other hopefuls walk away with the full $1 million?

The Fine Print: Not All at Once

AGT has long been famous for offering one of the most significant cash prizes in reality television. The $1 million prize sounds like an enormous windfall for any winner. However, what many viewers may not know is that the prize is subject to conditions that could drastically reduce its immediate value.

At the end of each episode, a disclaimer appears stating, “The prize, which totals $1,000,000, is payable in a financial annuity over 40 years, or the contestant may choose to receive the present cash value of such annuity.” This means that contestants are given two options: they can receive the full $1 million spread out over four decades, or they can opt for a lump sum payment that is significantly lower than the total prize amount.

This stipulation has surprised many contestants in the past, and for those like Goodall—who have gained fame but are still in the running to win—it introduces a complex decision-making process. Should they take the long-term payout and secure the full amount, or choose the lump sum and deal with a reduced prize?

How Much Do Winners Really Take Home?

For those who decide against waiting 40 years to receive the full $1 million, the lump sum option could be tempting. However, the present cash value of the annuity is considerably lower than the advertised prize. While the exact amount varies depending on interest rates and market conditions at the time of the win, the lump sum can range from $300,000 to $600,000—often around half of the full $1 million prize.

That amount is still life-changing, but it pales in comparison to the grand prize initially promoted. The decision can be particularly difficult for contestants like Richard Goodall, who may find themselves in a position where the money could help them capitalize on their newfound fame but could also feel short-changed by the system.

Impact on Contestants and Fans

As the AGT competition nears its conclusion, the prize money announcement has caused a stir among the contestants and fans alike. Many fans have expressed surprise and disappointment over the news, feeling that the advertised $1 million is somewhat misleading when the actual amount may be much lower, depending on the contestant’s choice.

For contestants like Goodall, who have spent years struggling to make ends meet and are now on the verge of stardom, the prize money could represent a huge opportunity—or a complicated financial dilemma. Contestants must weigh whether to take the full payout over time or the immediate cash, balancing their personal needs with the risks and benefits of each option.

Regardless of which decision they make, the AGT experience will undoubtedly be life-changing for whoever claims the title. As Richard Goodall and his fellow finalists continue to chase their dreams on the AGT stage, one thing is certain: winning this competition is about more than just talent—it’s about making the best financial choices in the spotlight of fame.