Andrew Ridgeley is a famous British pop star best known as one-half of Wham! alongside George Michael. Born in Windlesham, Surrey, England, he played a key role in shaping 1980s pop music. His influence in the music industry continues, even decades after Wham! disbanded. His career includes music, record production, and a brief solo journey. Beyond music, he enjoys motor racing, surfing in Cornwall, and writing.
As of 2025, Andrew Ridgeley’s estimated net worth is $40 million, earned through music royalties, smart investments, and business ventures. He has lived a lavish yet private life, often splitting time between Monaco and Cornwall. His legacy in British pop culture remains strong, and fans still celebrate his contributions.
Andrew Ridgeley Bio/ Wiki
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Andrew John Ridgeley |
| Date of Birth | January 26, 1963 |
| Age | 62 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Windlesham, Surrey, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Education | Bushey Meads School |
| Profession | Guitarist, Record producer, Music mentor, Author |
| Notable Band | Wham! (with George Michael) |
| Debut Album | Son of Albert (1990) |
| Popular Songs | Shake, Red Dress |
| Book | Wham! George & Me (memoir) |
| Hobbies | Motor racing, Surfing in Cornwall |
| Relationship | Long-term with Keren Woodward (Bananarama) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $40 million |
Who is Andrew Ridgeley?
Andrew Ridgeley is an English musician, singer, and songwriter best known as one-half of the 1980s pop duo Wham! alongside George Michael. Born in Windlesham, Surrey, England, he played a crucial role in shaping British pop culture. His success with Wham! brought him fame, fortune, and a lasting legacy in the music industry.
Beyond Wham!, Andrew Ridgeley pursued a solo album, worked as a record producer, and engaged in philanthropy. Though he stepped away from mainstream music, his contributions remain significant. His book, Wham! George & Me, offers insights into his journey. He enjoys motor racing, surfing in Cornwall, and supporting environmental advocacy.
Must Read: What is Antonio Aguilar Net Worth in 2025?
Andrew Ridgeley Net Worth
As of 2025, Andrew Ridgeley net worth is around $40 million. Most of his wealth comes from music royalties, especially from Wham! songs like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Last Christmas”. These tracks continue to generate revenue through radio play, streaming, and holiday sales. He also earns from book sales and other business ventures.
Beyond music, Ridgeley has invested in restaurants, tried motor racing, and engaged in environmental advocacy. His book, “Wham! George & Me”, was a bestseller and added to his earnings. Even though he left the music industry early, his smart financial choices helped him maintain a steady and comfortable lifestyle over the years.
Andrew Ridgeley Early Life and Education
Andrew Ridgeley was born into a multicultural family. His father, Alberto Ridgeley, worked for Canon, while his mother, Jennifer Ridgeley, was a teacher. His mixed Italian/Egyptian and Scottish heritage shaped his upbringing. Ridgeley spent most of his childhood in Bushey, where he developed a love for music and sports.
He studied at Bushey Heath Primary School before moving to Bushey Meads School. It was there that he met Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou, later known as George Michael. Ridgeley encouraged him to form a band, and their friendship turned into a musical partnership. This decision led to the creation of Wham!, one of the biggest pop acts of the 1980s.
Andrew Ridgeley Career Journey
Ridgeley’s big break came when he and George Michael formed Wham! in 1981. Their first album, “Fantastic”, was a hit in the UK. However, it was their second album, “Make It Big”, that made them international superstars. Songs like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper” became instant classics.
Despite their success, Wham! disbanded in 1986, with Michael pursuing a solo career. Ridgeley tried a solo project, releasing “Son of Albert” in 1990. It featured songs like “Shake” and “Red Dress”, but it failed commercially. He later stepped away from music, focusing on motor racing, surfing in Cornwall, and other personal interests.
Andrew Ridgeley Relationship Status
Ridgeley was in a long-term relationship with Keren Woodward from Bananarama. They lived together in Cornwall for nearly 30 years, leading a quiet life away from the spotlight. Despite breaking up in 2017, they remained close friends. Their relationship was one of the most stable in the entertainment industry.
After Woodward, Ridgeley was briefly linked to socialite Amanda Cronin in 2022. However, the relationship ended in May 2023. Since then, Ridgeley has kept his personal life private. He prefers a quiet lifestyle, spending time between his Monaco residence and Cornwall, where he enjoys surfing and outdoor activities.
Andrew Ridgeley Physical Appearance
| Feature | Description |
| Height | 6 feet |
| Weight | Approximately 68 kg |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown (now graying) |
| Body Type | Slim and athletic |
| Skin Tone | Light olive (due to Italian/Egyptian heritage) |
| Distinctive Features | Strong jawline, expressive eyes, youthful smile |
Andrew Ridgeley Awards & Achievements
Although Wham! was a huge success, Ridgeley himself did not receive many individual awards. However, in 2024, he was honored with the Anglo-American Cultural Award by the St. George’s Society of New York. This award recognized his contributions to British pop culture and the music industry.
His memoir, “Wham! George & Me”, was a bestseller and was praised for its insight into his friendship with George Michael. The book highlighted Ridgeley’s role in Wham! and gave fans a deeper understanding of their journey. His legacy remains strong, with Wham! songs continuing to be popular worldwide.
Andrew Ridgeley Future Plans and Goals
Although he is not active in music, Ridgeley remains involved in environmental advocacy. He works on ocean conservation projects, using his platform to spread awareness. His love for the ocean, developed during his years surfing in Cornwall, has inspired him to support sustainability efforts.
Ridgeley has also shown interest in mentoring young musicians. While he has not announced any new music, he occasionally appears in interviews and documentaries about 1980s pop music. Fans continue to celebrate his contribution to music, and his work ensures that his influence remains alive.
Andrew Ridgeley Fun Facts
Ridgeley is a big fan of surfing and often spends time in Cornwall riding waves. His love for motor racing led him to compete in the Renault Clio Cup after leaving the music industry. He also enjoys cycling and frequently participates in charity events supporting various causes.
Despite stepping away from music, Ridgeley still receives music royalties from Wham! hits. “Last Christmas” alone generates millions every holiday season. He once appeared in a Renault commercial, adding another unique achievement to his list. His life remains full of adventure, even outside the entertainment world.
Andrew Ridgeley Hobbies
Outside of his past music career, Ridgeley enjoys a variety of hobbies. Surfing in Cornwall is his greatest passion, and he often spends time at the beach. He also has a deep interest in motor racing, once competing in the Renault Clio Cup. His competitive nature extends beyond music into his active lifestyle.
Ridgeley is also a strong supporter of ocean conservation. He dedicates time and resources to environmental advocacy, promoting sustainability. Cycling is another of his hobbies, and he often takes part in long-distance rides. Though he left the music industry, his love for adventure and new experiences has never faded.
Notable Works
One of Ridgeley’s biggest contributions to Wham! was co-writing “Careless Whisper”, one of the most famous songs of the 1980s. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” became an instant classic and remains a fan favorite. “Last Christmas” continues to top holiday music charts every year.
His solo album, “Son of Albert”, featured songs like “Shake” and “Red Dress”. While it did not perform well commercially, it showcased Ridgeley’s independent musical style. His book, “Wham! George & Me”, gave fans an in-depth look at his life, making it one of his most successful projects outside music.
Rise to Fame
Andrew Ridgeley’s journey to stardom began when he co-founded Wham! with George Michael in 1981. The duo met in high school and shared a passion for music. Their breakthrough came with their debut album, “Fantastic”, which topped the UK charts in 1983. Songs like “Young Guns (Go for It)” and “Bad Boys” made them rising pop stars.
However, it was their second album, “Make It Big”, that launched them into global superstardom. Hits like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go”, “Everything She Wants”, and “Careless Whisper” dominated charts worldwide. The duo became icons of the 1980s, selling millions of records and performing in front of massive audiences, solidifying their place in music history.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username/Handle | Followers | Links |
| @andrewjohnridgeley | 102K | Click Here | |
| @ajridgeley | 67.8K | Click Here |
FAQ’s
What is Andrew Ridgeley net worth in 2025?
Andrew Ridgeley net worth in 2025 is estimated at $40 million, mainly from music royalties, smart investments, and his career in the entertainment industry.
What was Andrew Ridgeley’s role in Wham!?
Andrew Ridgeley was the guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of Wham!, alongside George Michael. He contributed to their iconic 1980s pop music legacy.
Did Andrew Ridgeley have a solo career?
Yes, Andrew Ridgeley released a solo album, Son of Albert, in 1990. It included songs like Shake and Red Dress but had limited success.
Was Andrew Ridgeley married to Keren Woodward?
Andrew Ridgeley was in a long-term relationship with Keren Woodward from Bananarama. Though they separated, they remained close and shared a home in Cornwall.
Is Andrew Ridgeley involved in any businesses?
Yes, Andrew Ridgeley has restaurant investments and earns from music royalties. His financial ventures support his lifestyle and philanthropic work.
Conclusion
Andrew Ridgeley remains a significant figure in British pop culture. His journey from a teenage dreamer to a global star with Wham! left a lasting mark on 1980s pop music. Even after stepping away from the spotlight, he continues to influence the music industry. His work as a music mentor, author, and advocate for environmental causes keeps him active.
Andrew Ridgeley net worth of estimated $40 million, Ridgeley enjoys a comfortable life through music royalties and smart investments. Whether surfing in Cornwall, supporting charities, or enjoying his Monaco residence, he remains passionate about life. His legacy as a pop star, record producer, and philanthropist ensures that his contributions to music history will never be forgotten.
“Starz Talks keeps you in the loop with the latest celebrity news, entertainment updates, and red carpet moments. Discover trending stories, behind the scenes gossip, and exclusive insights into the world of stars. Stay connected and never miss a beat with Starz Talks your ultimate entertainment destination.”