Andrew Ridgeley, best known as one half of the iconic band Wham!, has had an intriguing journey through both fame and financial success. Over the years, his wealth has been shaped not just by his role in the duo but also by his business ventures and ongoing music royalties.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Andrew Ridgeley net worth, his salary, and how he has managed his finances over time. Whether you’re curious about his earnings from Wham! or how he’s spent his post-music career, this article has you covered.
Andrew Ridgeley Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Andrew John Ridgeley |
| Popular Name | Andrew Ridgeley |
| Birth Date | January 26, 1963 |
| Age | 62 (as of February 15, 2025) |
| Birthplace | Windlesham, Surrey, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | Scottish, Italian/Egyptian |
| Education | Bushey Meads School |
| Marital Status | N/A |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | Keren Woodward (former partner) |
| Siblings | Paul (Younger brother, drummer with Bananarama) |
| Parents | Albert Ridgeley, Jennifer Ridgeley |
| Height | 1.82 m |
| Net Worth | $40 million |
| Source of Wealth | Wham!, music royalties, business ventures, memoir |
What is the Net Worth Of Andrew Ridgeley in 2025?
Andrew Ridgeley’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $40 million. While his wealth isn’t as vast as some of his contemporaries in the music industry, it remains significant due to his successful career with Wham! and ongoing royalties from their hit songs.
Comparatively, George Michael, his Wham! bandmate, amassed a much higher net worth during his solo career. Ridgeley’s wealth is primarily tied to music royalties from enduring hits like Careless Whisper, Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, and Last Christmas.
While exact details of Ridgeley’s earnings are not always publicly disclosed, his royalties continue to provide steady income.
Compared to other musicians of his era, Andrew’s financial standing reflects a stable career, with earnings from business ventures like his restaurant, Bar 92, and his involvement in the 1990s Formula Three racing scene.
Famous Names Related to Andrew Ridgeley:
- George Michael
- Wham!
- Keren Woodward
- Bananarama
- Elton John
- Live Aid
- Formula Three Racing
- Careless Whisper (Song)
- Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (Song)
- Son of Albert (Album)
For more on celebrities and their financial status, check out richest celebrities and see how other famous figures stack up.
Andrew Ridgeley Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did Andrew Ridgeley Build His Wealth?
Andrew Ridgeley’s financial journey began in the early 1980s when he formed Wham! with his childhood friend, George Michael. The duo achieved massive global success with their albums, such as Fantastic (1983) and Make It Big (1984), which produced chart-topping hits.
These tracks not only earned the duo a fortune but also set the stage for long-term royalty income.
In addition to album sales, Wham!’s groundbreaking performance in China in 1985 helped expand their reach, adding to their financial success. Ridgeley’s income was split between royalties, performances, and his share of the band’s earnings.
While George Michael was the primary songwriter, Ridgeley contributed to the creation of several iconic tracks, including Careless Whisper, which continues to generate significant royalties.
What Are Andrew Ridgeley’s Primary Sources of Income?
Andrew Ridgeley’s wealth is largely based on a combination of music royalties and business ventures. His ongoing income stream primarily comes from Wham!’s timeless hits. The most significant source of his music earnings is from songs like Careless Whisper, which Ridgeley co-wrote.
In fact, it’s reported that he’s earned millions in royalties just from this track alone.
Beyond his music career, Ridgeley ventured into other business endeavors, such as opening a restaurant in England called Bar 92. This business venture provided him with an additional source of income, diversifying his financial portfolio.
Ridgeley also tried his hand at Formula Three racing, which, while not a major income source, provided a new avenue for his passions and interests.
How Much Does Andrew Ridgeley Earn from Song Royalties?
Though the exact figures are private, Andrew Ridgeley continues to earn a substantial income from Wham! royalties. The song Careless Whisper alone has sold millions of copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling singles of all time.
Reports estimate Ridgeley has earned over $10 million from this song alone in the decades since its release.
As Wham!’s global hits continue to be played during the holidays and across various media, Ridgeley’s financial earnings remain steady. The lasting appeal of Last Christmas ensures that royalties keep flowing in, especially during the festive season.
Andrew Ridgeley’s Financial Ventures Beyond Music
After Wham!’s split in 1986, Ridgeley’s financial ventures took him into various fields outside music. One notable venture was his time spent as a Formula Three racer, where he competed in a sport that was different from his musical background.
Though his racing career didn’t reach the heights of his musical one, it showed Ridgeley’s interest in diversifying his financial activities.
Ridgeley also took the step to open Bar 92, a restaurant in England, where he focused on business outside of the entertainment industry.
This venture added to his wealth but wasn’t as lucrative as his music career. However, it is another example of Ridgeley using his fame and resources to invest in something outside of the typical entertainment world.
How Does Andrew Ridgeley Spend His Money?
Andrew Ridgeley’s spending habits appear to reflect a comfortable yet private lifestyle. After his music career, he chose to live in Monaco and later relocated to Los Angeles, where he focused on enjoying life away from the limelight.
Ridgeley has also supported various charities, including those related to rugby. His charitable giving aligns with his low-key, philanthropic nature.
Ridgeley has made investments in property, although specific details about his real estate holdings are not widely publicized.
His lifestyle also includes enjoying a slower pace of life compared to his high-profile years with Wham!, where the focus was on extravagant performances and world tours.
Conclusion
Andrew Ridgeley’s net worth and wealth are deeply tied to his time with Wham! and the enduring popularity of their music.
While his career outside of music didn’t produce the same level of financial success, his royalties from Wham! continue to provide him with a steady income. For further insights into celebrity finances, feel free to explore more content on aupeo.com.
