What is Andrew Ridgeley Net Worth?

Early Life

Andrew Ridgeley, born on January 26, 1963, in Windlesham, Surrey, England, is a renowned English musician known for his contribution to the 1980s musical duo Wham! His parents, Jennifer and Alberto Mario Zacharia, later Ridgeley, had diverse heritages, with his mother being of English and Scottish descent, and his father having Jewish, Italian, Yemeni, and Egyptian roots. Ridgeley grew up in Bushey, Hertfordshire, attending Bushey Meads School. His friendship with George Michael, his bandmate in Wham!, dates back to their school days when Ridgeley volunteered to guide Michael, who was a new student.

Wham!

Formed in 1981, Wham! achieved global success with over 35 million records sold worldwide. Their debut album, “Fantastic,” released in 1983, topped the UK charts and featured hit singles like “Wham Rap! (Enjoy What You Do)” and “Club Tropicana.” The duo’s second album, “Make It Big” (1984), was a massive success, reaching number one in both the UK and the US. Hits like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Everything She Wants” solidified their popularity.

Royalties

As a co-writer of several Wham! songs, including the iconic “Careless Whisper,” Andrew Ridgeley continues to earn substantial royalties from the group’s music. “Careless Whisper,” co-written by Ridgeley, has generated millions in royalties over the years, contributing significantly to his estimated net worth of $40 million.

After Wham!

Following Wham!’s disbandment, Ridgeley explored other ventures, from trying his hand at Formula Three motor racing in Monaco to pursuing an acting career in Los Angeles. In 1990, he released his solo album “Son of Albert,” featuring singles like “Shake” and “Red Dress.” Despite the album’s mixed reception, Ridgeley continued to dabble in various projects, including appearances in documentaries and films.

Personal Life

Andrew Ridgeley’s personal life has seen him in a long-term relationship with Keren Woodward of Bananarama fame from 1990 to 2017. They lived together in Cornwall with Woodward’s son before parting ways. Ridgeley later dated socialite Amanda Cronin, with the relationship ending in 2024. His involvement in charitable activities, such as the Dallaglio Cycle Slam, showcases his commitment to giving back to the community.

Awards and Nominations

Throughout his career with Wham!, Ridgeley garnered accolades and nominations, including Grammy nominations for Best Pop Performance and Best Music Video. Wham! received recognition at the American Music Awards and Brit Awards, with wins for British Group and Outstanding Contribution to Music. Their hit singles like “Careless Whisper” and “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” earned them international acclaim and nominations at prestigious award ceremonies.

What is Andrew Ridgeley’s Net Worth?

As of 2024, Andrew Ridgeley’s net worth is estimated to be $40 million. His successful tenure with Wham! and subsequent ventures in music, racing, and acting have contributed to his financial prosperity. Ridgeley’s ongoing royalties from Wham! hits, particularly “Careless Whisper,” have been a significant factor in his impressive net worth.

FAQs

1. What is Andrew Ridgeley’s primary claim to fame?
Andrew Ridgeley is best known for being one half of the 1980s musical duo Wham!, alongside George Michael.

2. How did Andrew Ridgeley and George Michael meet?
Ridgeley and Michael met at Bushey Meads School, where Ridgeley volunteered to show Michael around on his first day, leading to a lifelong friendship.

3. What was Wham!’s most successful album?
Wham!’s album “Make It Big” (1984) was their most successful, reaching number one in multiple countries and producing chart-topping singles.

4. What is the significance of the song “Careless Whisper” to Andrew Ridgeley’s career?
Andrew Ridgeley co-wrote “Careless Whisper,” a massive hit for Wham!, which has generated substantial royalties for him over the years.

5. How has Andrew Ridgeley been involved in charitable work?
Ridgeley has participated in events like the Dallaglio Cycle Slam, supporting initiatives like Dallaglio Rugby Works that use sports to empower young people.