Andrew Ridgeley may not be as widely recognized as his former bandmate George Michael, but his contributions to music and his financial success remain significant.
As one half of Wham!, Ridgeley helped shape 1980s pop culture, and his financial standing continues to benefit from those early successes.
But how exactly does he make his money today? While Wham! disbanded in 1986, Ridgeley still enjoys royalties from hit songs like Careless Whisper, which remains one of the most played songs worldwide. Beyond music, he’s dabbled in business, real estate, and publishing.
This article takes a deep dive into Andrew Ridgeley net worth, income sources, and financial ventures, shedding light on how he has managed his fortune over the years.
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. His fortune primarily comes from Wham! royalties, particularly from Careless Whisper, which continues to generate substantial revenue.
Even decades after Wham!’s breakup, Ridgeley earns from songwriting credits, album sales, and licensing deals.
In comparison, George Michael had a significantly higher net worth at the time of his passing, largely due to his continued solo success. However, Ridgeley has maintained financial stability despite stepping away from the limelight.
His investments in real estate, business ventures, and book sales have contributed to his wealth.
Other Related Figures
- George Michael
- Wham!
- Duran Duran
- Epic Records
- Bananarama
- Elton John
- Sony Music Entertainment
- Simon Napier-Bell
- 1980s British Pop Scene
- UK Music Industry
Interested in exploring more about wealthy musicians and celebrities? Check out the richest celebrities for insights into top earners in the entertainment industry.
Andrew Ridgeley Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Does He Make Money?
Even though Andrew Ridgeley stepped away from the music industry decades ago, his income streams remain diverse:
- Music royalties: Co-writing Careless Whisper ensures steady revenue.
- Album sales: Wham! has sold over 35 million records worldwide.
- Licensing and streaming: Digital platforms like Spotify and Apple Music contribute to ongoing earnings.
- Book sales: His memoir Wham! George Michael & Me generated additional income.
- Media appearances: He featured in Netflix’s Wham! documentary (2023).
What Are His Primary Sources of Income?
His primary income sources come from Wham! and beyond:
- Royalties from Wham! songs, including Wham Rap! and Club Tropicana.
- Performance earnings from Wham!’s live tours and Live Aid appearance.
- Media appearances and interviews in various documentaries and shows.
- Real estate investments, including a property in England.
Does He Still Earn Royalties from Music?
Yes, Ridgeley continues to earn from songwriting royalties. Since he co-wrote Careless Whisper, he gets a share of the millions of dollars the song has generated over the decades. The song remains a global hit, bringing in revenue through:
- Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music.
- Radio airplay and licensing in commercials, TV shows, and films.
- Annual Wham! holiday sales (Last Christmas surges every year).
What Business Ventures and Investments Has He Pursued?
After Wham!, Ridgeley explored multiple business opportunities:
- Formula Three racing: He briefly pursued professional racing in Monaco.
- Restaurant ownership: He ran Bar 92 in England.
- Real estate investments: Ridgeley has invested in properties, particularly in the UK.
- Publishing: His book Wham! George Michael & Me provided another income stream.
How Does His Financial Status Compare to Other 1980s Musicians?
Compared to George Michael, Ridgeley’s financial trajectory has been more modest, as he largely retired from music. However, his net worth aligns with other 1980s pop icons who focused on royalties and investments rather than active careers.
How Has He Managed His Finances Over the Years?
Ridgeley’s financial management has been strategic:
- He secured long-term income through songwriting credits.
- He avoided overspending and maintained a stable lifestyle.
- Unlike many musicians, he didn’t face major financial scandals or bankruptcies.
What Are His Most Valuable Assets?
- Music catalog and royalties from Wham!
- Real estate holdings in the UK
- Publishing rights from his memoir
- Media earnings from interviews and guest appearances
Does He Still Earn from Public Appearances and Media Projects?
Ridgeley makes occasional media appearances, including:
- Netflix’s Wham! documentary (2023)
- Interviews about George Michael’s legacy
- Guest judge on The Great British Menu
While he doesn’t actively seek public attention, he earns residual income from these projects.
What Financial Challenges Has He Faced?
- The failure of Son of Albert: His solo album flopped.
- Adjusting to life after Wham!: He had to reinvent his career.
- Business ventures with mixed success: Some, like Formula Three racing, didn’t last.
Conclusion
Andrew Ridgeley’s financial journey is a testament to smart investments and long-term planning. While he stepped away from the spotlight, his royalties and business ventures continue to sustain his wealth. Want more celebrity financial insights? Visit andomoney.com for the latest updates!
