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Andrew Ridgeley, co-founder of the famous 1980s band Wham, achieved major fame as part of the pop duo with George Michael. Known for hits like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper,” Ridgeley played a big role in creating timeless music that still brings in revenue today. Andrew Ridgeley’s net worth is estimated to be around $40 million in 2024, a reflection of his achievements and ongoing royalties.
In this article, we’ll explore Andrew Ridgeley’s net worth, his earnings from Wham, solo projects, and his ventures beyond music. We’ll also take a closer look at how Ridgeley’s work continues to impact music fans worldwide. Let’s start with some quick facts about Andrew Ridgeley.
Personal Summary
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Andrew John Ridgeley |
| Popular Name | Andrew Ridgeley |
| Net Worth | $40 million |
| Date of Birth | January 26, 1963 |
| Age | 61 years (as of 2024) |
| Place of Birth | Windlesham, Surrey, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Height | 6 feet (1.83 meters) |
| Profession | Singer-songwriter, Record Producer, Guitarist, Writer, Environmentalist |
| Education | Bushey Meads School |
| Parents | Jennifer Jill (mother), Alberto Mario Zacharia (father) |
| Siblings | Paul Ridgeley (younger brother) |
| Relationship Status | Formerly in a long-term relationship with Keren Woodward of Bananarama (1990–2017) |
| Children | None |
| Genres | Pop, New Wave |
| Famous For | Co-founder of Wha! with George Michael |
| Hit Songs (With Wham) | “Careless Whisper,” “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” “Last Christmas,” “Wham Rap!” |
| Albums with Wham! | Fantastic (1983), Make It Big (1984), Music from the Edge of Heaven (1986) |
| Solo Album | Son of Albert (1990) |
| Awards | Brit Award for British Group (1985), Ivor Novello Award for Most Performed Work (Careless Whisper, 1985) |
| Major Ventures | Formula Three motor racing, restaurant ownership (Bar 92), author of Wham George & Me (2019) |
| Charity Work | Participant in Dallaglio Cycle Slam for Rugby Works |
| Royalties | Significant ongoing income from Wham catalog, particularly “Careless Whisper” and “Last Christmas” |
| Cultural Impact | Helped pioneer 1980s pop culture with Wham’s catchy and danceable music |
| Recent Media | Netflix documentary Wham (2023), memoir Wham George & Me (2019) |
Early Life and Background
Andrew Ridgeley was born in Windlesham, Surrey, England, and grew up with a mix of Scottish, Italian, and Egyptian heritage. His parents, Jennifer Jill and Alberto Mario Zacharia, were supportive of his interests, and Ridgeley showed a talent for music from an early age.
Ridgeley met George Michael while attending Bushey Meads School, where they quickly became friends and bandmates.
This friendship would change both of their lives. They shared a love for music, especially the sounds of the 80s. Together, they began to perform locally, setting the stage for what would become one of the most successful pop duos in history: Wham.
Lifestyle and Spending Habits
Though Ridgeley net worth is impressive, he lives a relatively modest life. He once lived in a 15th-century barn in Cornwall with his long-term partner, Keren Woodward of Bananarama. Ridgeley enjoys cycling and has a strong interest in environmental causes.
His public image and media engagements help sustain his marketability, even years after Wham’s final album. Ridgeley maintains his connection to the music world, often through charity and social events, keeping his legacy alive.
The Rise of Wham
In 1981, Ridgeley and George Michael officially formed Wham. Their first album, “Fantastic”, was released in 1983. It included popular songs like “Wham Rap!” and “Young Guns,” which made them stars in the UK. The success of Fantastic was just the beginning.
Their second album, “Make It Big”, was a global success. Released in 1984, it included iconic tracks like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go”, “Freedom”, and “Careless Whisper”. This Wham album sold millions, topped charts worldwide, and cemented Wham as a major force in pop music. Ridgeley’s role as a songwriter and guitarist added to the sound that would define 80s pop.
Key Sources of Wealth During Wham
During their time in Wham, Ridgeley earned from album sales, royalties, and international tours. His wealth largely comes from his co-writing credits on hit songs. For instance, “Careless Whisper” one of the best-selling singles of all time continues to bring in significant royalties.
Ridgeley’s contributions to Wham songs mean he still earns today.Ridgeley also benefited from Wham’s incredible chart success. Make It Big alone reached 4x Platinum in the UK and 6x Platinum in the US.
Albums like Fantastic and Music from the Edge of Heaven also performed well, making Ridgeley’s fortune more stable with each hit. Even in 2024, the Wham legacy continues to drive his financial status.
How Much is Andrew Ridgeley Worth
Andrew Ridgeley worth has an estimated net worth of $40 million as of 2024. Much of his wealth stems from his time in the iconic 1980s band Wham, where he co-wrote hits like “Careless Whisper” and “Last Christmas.”
These songs continue to generate significant royalties. Ridgeley also earned from album sales, tours, and performances.He pursued a solo music career, business ventures such as his restaurant, and occasional media appearances.
His memoir and participation in projects like the Netflix documentary Wham further contribute to his income, ensuring a steady financial legacy long after his active music career ended.
Ventures and Financial Moves
After Wham disbanded in 1986, Ridgeley pursue other interests. He released a solo album, “Son of Albert”, in 1990. While it didn’t match Wham’s success, it still helped him explore his musical identity.
Later, Ridgeley even tried his hand at Formula Three motor racing, showing a willingness to venture outside of music.In the business world, Ridgeley opened a restaurant called Bar 92 in England.
Although his solo music and restaurant ventures weren’t huge financial successes, they reflect Ridgeley’s diverse interests. Public appearances and media projects, like his cameo in the 2019 film Last Christmas, also add to his earnings.
Ongoing Royalties from Wham Songs
One of the biggest sources of Ridgeley’s wealth is the royalties from Wham hits. Songs like “Last Christmas” and “Careless Whisper” remain popular globally, bringing in steady income. “Last Christmas” has become a seasonal favorite, adding to Ridgeley’s revenue each holiday season.
This 1980s hit continues to add to his net worth. With George Michael as the primary songwriter, Ridgeley’s contributions to Wham albums and his influence on hits like “Wham Rap!” mean that he still benefits financially.
Personal Ventures and Charity Work
Outside of his celebrity wealth, Ridgeley is known for his involvement in charity. He has participated in events like the Dallaglio Cycle Slam, a fundraising event that supports Rugby Works, an organization helping young people.
Though Ridgeley’s earnings from charity work aren’t monetary, they boost his public profile.His memoir, “Wham George & Me”, released in 2019, was also commercially successful, adding another revenue stream to his portfolio.
This book, along with the recent Netflix documentary “Wham”, helps Ridgeley stay connected to his fanbase, creating opportunities for further income and enhancing his long-term marketability.
Legacy and Influence in Pop Culture
Wham’s impact on pop music remains significant. Songs like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Last Christmas” are 80s classics. Ridgeley’s contributions have helped cement Wham as a defining pop duo of the 1980s.
With the Netflix documentary and recent memoir, Ridgeley’s influence continues. Younger generations are discovering Wham songs and the charm of the pop era Ridgeley and Michael helped define.
This sustained interest in Wham introduces Ridgeley’s work to new fans, adding to his legacy. As more artists revisit the 80s sound, Ridgeley’s impact on pop music remains evident.
FAQ’s
How Did Andrew Ridgeley Make His Money?
Andrew Ridgeley made his money primarily through his music career with Wham, earning from album sales, tours, and royalties from hits like “Careless Whisper” and “Last Christmas”. Post-Wham, he pursued ventures like his solo album, a restaurant business, and ongoing royalties from his work with George Michael.
Did Andrew Ridgeley Go to George Michael’s Funeral?
Yes, Andrew Ridgeley attended George Michael’s funeral. As a close friend and collaborator, he was deeply affected by Michael’s death and was present at the private ceremony to pay his respects.
How Much Is Andy from Wham Worth?
Andrew Ridgeley’s net worth is estimated to be $40 million. His wealth comes from his success with Wham, royalties from timeless hits, and business ventures after leaving the music industry.
What Was George Michael Net Worth?
At the time of his passing, George Michael’s net worth was estimated at around $200 million. This fortune came from his illustrious music career, including solo hits like “Faith” and his work with Wham.
How Wealthy Is Madonna?
Madonna is one of the wealthiest musicians in the world, with an estimated net worth of $850 million. Her income comes from her music career, tours, endorsements, acting, and business ventures, including fashion and health brands.
Who Inherited All George Michael’s Money?
George Michael’s fortune was divided among his family and close friends. His sisters, Melanie and Yioda Panayiotou, received the bulk of his estate, while smaller portions went to his godchildren and trusted friends.
How Much Money Did George Michael Leave in His Will?
George Michael left approximately $125 million in his will. Most of it was distributed to his sisters and a few close associates, along with donations to several charities he supported throughout his life.
Who Is Andrew Ridgeley’s Wife?
Andrew Ridgeley does not currently have a wife. He was in a long-term relationship with Keren Woodward, a member of Bananarama, but they split in 2017. Ridgeley remains private about his personal life.
Where Is George Michael’s Grave?
George Michael’s grave is located in Highgate Cemetery in London. It is a private resting place, and his family has ensured the area remains inaccessible to the public.
Wife Andrew Ridgeley Net Worth?
Andrew Ridgeley does not have a wife as he is not married. He was in a long-term relationship with Keren Woodward of Bananarama from 1990 to 2017. Ridgeley’s estimated net worth remains $40 million as of 2024.
Where Is Freddie Mercury Buried?
Freddie Mercury’s burial site remains unknown to the public. It is believed that his ashes were scattered or privately interred by Mary Austin, his close friend, to honor his wishes for discretion.
Are Any of George Michael’s Family Still Alive?
Yes, members of George Michael’s family are still alive. His older sister, Yioda Panayiotou, and extended family continue to maintain his legacy. His younger sister Melanie Panayiotou passed away in 2019.
Who Went to George Michael’s Funeral?
George Michael’s funeral was a small, private ceremony attended by family and close friends, including Andrew Ridgeley, Shirlie Holliman, and Martin Kemp. The family chose to keep it intimate, respecting his desire for privacy.
Conclusion
Andrew Ridgeley with a current net worth of $40 million, rose to fame as one half of the iconic 1980s pop duo Wham alongside George Michael. Andrew’s musical journey began at Bushey Meads School, where he first met Michael. Together, they created hits like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper,” with Andrew co-writing several songs.
After Wham disbandment in 1986, Andrew explored various ventures, including Formula Three racing and restaurant ownership. His continuous income primarily comes from royalties, especially from “Careless Whisper,” which has earned him over $10 million.
