Andrew Ridgeley is best known as one-half of the legendary 1980s pop duo Wham!, alongside his childhood friend George Michael. Together, they created some of the most iconic songs of the decade, leaving an indelible mark on global pop culture. Their partnership cemented a lasting friendship that transcended their professional collaboration. Beyond his music career, Ridgeley has pursued diverse interests and causes, including environmental activism and charitable work. This biography explores his life, career, and enduring legacy.
Table of Contents
Who is Andrew Ridgeley?
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrew John Ridgeley |
| Age/ Date of Birth | 62 years/ January 26, 1963 |
| Family/ Parents | Jennifer Jill (née Dunlop) and Alberto Mario Zacharia (later Ridgeley) |
| Education | Bushey Meads School |
| Wife | To be updated |
| Partners | Amanda Cronin (2021–2023), Keren Woodward (1990–2017), Donya Fiorentino (1986), and Jackie St. Clair (1985) |
| Son/ Children | Not Available |
| Net Worth | $40 million – $45 million |
| Salary | $4 million annually |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches |
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Andrew Ridgeley Age, Early Life, and Background
Andrew Ridgeley was born to Jennifer Jill (née Dunlop) and Alberto Mario Zacharia (later Ridgeley), a family with a rich multicultural heritage. His mother was of English and Scottish descent, while his father had Jewish roots with Italian, Yemeni, and Egyptian ancestry. Alberto’s family was expelled from Egypt during the Suez Crisis, a pivotal event that shaped their life trajectory.
Ridgeley grew up in Bushey, Hertfordshire, alongside his younger brother Paul born in February 1964. His mother worked as a schoolteacher at Bushey Heath Primary School, while his father was employed by Canon. This stable family environment played a crucial role in shaping Andrew’s early life and interests.
Andrew attended Bushey Meads School, where he met George Michael (then Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou). Recognizing Michael’s shy demeanor, Ridgeley befriended him, marking the beginning of a lifelong friendship. This bond would eventually become the foundation of Wham!
Education and Early Musical Interests
Andrew’s early musical interests were nurtured through his involvement in various school bands. He and George Michael, along with Andrew’s brother Paul, formed a short-lived group called The Executive. Although the band did not achieve significant success, it laid the groundwork for their future collaborations hence setting the stage for Wham!’s creation.
The Formation of Wham! And rise to fame
In 1981, Ridgeley and Michael formed Wham!, which would become one of the most successful pop acts of the 1980s. Wham!’s music was characterized by catchy pop melodies and upbeat rhythms, appealing to a wide audience. Andrew’s role in the duo included co-writing songs, playing guitar, and providing backing vocals, while George Michael was the lead vocalist and primary songwriter.
Wham!’s rise to fame was meteoric. They approached record labels with a homemade demo tape recorded in Ridgeley’s living room and secured the deal by eventually signing with Innervision Records. Their first album was moderately successful, but it was their subsequent signing with Epic Records that catapulted them to international stardom.
Their first debut album, Fantastic (1983), was moderately successful, establishing them as rising stars in the UK. However, it was their subsequent signing with Epic Records and second album Make It Big (1984) that catapulted them to international stardom.
Global Stardom: Wham!’s Success
Some of Wham!’s most iconic hits, which include “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” “Everything She Wants, ”Freedom”” and “Careless Whisper,” topped both the US and UK Billboard Hot 100 chart. Their success was part of the MTV-driven” Second British Invasion of the US”, making them one of the most influential pop acts of the decade. In April 1985, Wham! made history as the first Western pop act to perform in China.
Their visit included concerts in Beijing and Canton and was documented in the film Wham! in China: Foreign Skies. This groundbreaking event showcased their global appeal and solidified their status as international superstars. Despite their success, Wham! disbanded amicably in June 1986 as George Michael sought to pursue a solo career.
Their farewell concert at Wembley Stadium—aptly titled “The Final”—drew over 72,000 fans.
Post-Wham! Career
After Wham!’s dissolution, Ridgeley explored various ventures. He moved to Monaco to try his hand at Formula Three motor racing but found little success. He later relocated to Los Angeles to pursue acting before returning to the UK in 1990.
In the same year, Ridgeley released his solo album Son of Albert under CBS Records. The album featured guitar-driven/rock-inspired tracks but failed commercially and critically. Although the album received poor reviews and sold poorly, it marked an attempt by Ridgeley to establish himself as a solo artist.
Singles like “Shake” achieved moderate success in Australia but did not resonate globally. Following this setback, Ridgeley stepped away from mainstream music.
Publicity and Media Attention
Andrew Ridgeley’s personal life often made headlines in the tabloids. He was frequently portrayed as a party animal, earning nicknames like “Animal Andy” and “Randy Andy.” This media attention sometimes overshadowed his musical contributions, but it also contributed to Wham!’s public image as a fun-loving duo.
In 1984, Ridgeley underwent surgery to correct a deviated septum, which was initially misrepresented by their manager as a result of a nightclub altercation. This incident highlights the intense media scrutiny he faced during Wham!’s peak.
Environmental Activism and Charitable Work
In the early 1990s, Andrew became involved in surfing. Ridgeley’s passion for surfing led him to environmental activism, particularly in the cause of water quality, after experiencing water contamination firsthand along with his brother Paul due to a sewage contamination. He became involved with the UK charity Surfers Against Sewage (SAS), advocating for cleaner oceans and stricter sewage regulations in the UK.
Ridgeley’s efforts have been instrumental in improvements in water quality standards, significantly reducing E. coli illnesses and deaths in the UK. His commitment to environmental causes reflects a broader aspect of his personality beyond his musical fame.
Ridgeley has also participated in charitable events such as the Dallaglio Cycle Slam—a cycling challenge supporting young people through rugby programs—and other philanthropic initiatives.
Legacy and Current Activities
Andrew Ridgeley’s legacy is deeply intertwined with Wham!’s impact on 1980s pop culture. Despite not pursuing a solo music career extensively after Wham! he remains an iconic figure in the music industry. His memoir and continued involvement in environmental activism have kept him in the public eye, albeit in a more subdued manner than during his Wham! days.
In recent years, Ridgeley has participated in events celebrating Wham!’s history, including a cameo appearance in the 2019 film “Last Christmas,” which featured George Michael’s music. His involvement in charity cycling events and environmental activism underscores his commitment to causes beyond his musical past.
Key Achievements
- Wham! Success: Over 30 million records sold worldwide between 1982–1986.
- Historic China Tour: First Western pop group to perform in China.
- Solo Album: Released Son of Albert (1990).
- Memoir: Published Wham! George & Me (2019), offering insights into his life with George Michael.
- Environmental Activism: Active supporter of Surfers Against Sewage (SAS).
| Year | Event |
| 1963 | Born on January 26 in Windlesham, Surrey |
| 1979 | Formed The Executive with George Michael and Paul Ridgeley |
| 1981 | Formed Wham! with George Michael |
| 1982-1986 | Wham!’s rise to fame with hits like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper”, released debut Album “Fantastic” (1983) and achieved global success with “make it big” (1985) |
| 1985 | Wham!’s historic visit to China |
| 1986 | Wham!’s farewell concert, “The Final,” at Wembley Stadium |
| 1990 | Released solo album “Son of Albert” and returned to the UK |
| Early 1990s | Became involved in surfing and environmental activism |
| 2017 | Announced split from Keren Woodward |
| 2019 | Published memoir “Wham! George & Me” and appeared in the film “Last Christmas” |
Andrew Ridgeley’s Impact on Music and Beyond
Andrew Ridgeley’s impact extends far beyond his musical contributions with Wham!. His environmental activism has made significant strides in improving water quality in the UK. His memoir offers a unique perspective on the music industry and the power of enduring friendships.
As a figure from the iconic 1980s pop scene, Ridgeley continues to inspire new generations with his legacy and ongoing contributions to social causes.
Andrew Ridgeley Past Relationships and Personal Life
Andrew Ridgeley was in a relationship with Shirlie Kemp, but the exact dates are not specified in the available information. Additionally, Andrew had a brief relationship with Jackie St. Clair in 1985. Likewise, Andrew dated Donya Fiorentino in 1986.
Andrew Ridgeley Keren Woodward (1990–2017)
Andrew Ridgeley was in a long-term relationship with Keren Woodward, a member of the pop group Bananarama, for 27 years. The couple began dating in 1990 and moved to Wadebridge, Cornwall, in 1994. They lived in a 15th-century converted barn with Keren’s son, Thomas, from her previous relationship.
Despite being seen as a stable couple, they briefly split in 2015 before reconciling. They officially ended their relationship in 2017 but remained on amicable terms.
Andrew Ridgeley Amanda Cronin (2021–2023)
After his split from Keren, Andrew dated Amanda Cronin, a former model and socialite. The pair made their public debut at Wimbledon in June 2022. Their relationship ended in May 2023. Amanda described Andrew as “smart, funny, sexy, and cool” but noted that he wasn’t “relationship material”.
Andrew Ridgeley Wife and Children
Andrew Ridgeley has never been married. Furthermore, he does not have biological children but helped raise Keren Woodward’s son, Thomas, during their long-term relationship.
Residence
Andrew Ridgeley has lived in Wadebridge, Cornwall, for over 30 years. He moved there with Keren Woodward in the early 1990s and continues to reside in the area even after their split. He enjoys a quiet lifestyle involving local community activities like golf and surfing.
Andrew Ridgeley Net Worth and Salary
Andrew Ridgeley’s net worth is estimated to be between $40 million and $45 million in 2025. This wealth primarily stems from his music career, royalties from Wham!’s hits, and other business ventures.
Sources of Wealth
Ridgeley continues to earn significant royalties from Wham!’s music catalog. Notably, he co-wrote “Careless Whisper,” which alone has reportedly earned him over $10 million in royalties since its release. The song remains one of the best-selling singles of all time.
Other hits like “Club Tropicana” and “Wham Rap” also contribute to his ongoing income. Additionally, after Wham! disbanded in 1986, Ridgeley released a solo album, Son of Albert, in 1990. While it did not achieve major commercial success, it added to his portfolio as a musician.
Besides music royalties, Andrew receives royalties from the sale of books. In 2019, Ridgeley published his memoir Wham! George & Me, which became a bestseller and added another revenue stream. He also earns significantly from acting and cameos.
Ridgeley made a cameo appearance in the 2019 film Last Christmas, which featured Wham!’s music and brought renewed attention to the duo’s legacy. Moreover, Ridgeley has invested in a company that produces surfing goods and is an active supporter of environmental causes through organizations like Surfers Against Sewage (SAS).
While not directly a source of wealth, Ridgeley’s involvement in charity cycling events and environmental activism highlights his engagement with philanthropy. His commitment to environmental activism is well-documented. He has worked extensively with SAS to improve water quality along UK coastlines and helped enact laws against raw sewage discharge into oceans.
Salary in 2025
Ridgeley reportedly earns an annual income of approximately $4 million, largely from music royalties and other ventures. His monthly income is estimated at $200,000 or more.
Financial Growth
Ridgeley’s net worth has steadily grown over the years due to consistent royalties from Wham!’s evergreen hits and smart financial management.
| Year | Net Worth |
| 2021 | $32 million |
| 2023 | $37 million |
| 2024 | $41 million |
| 2025 | $40–$45 million |
Andrew Ridgeley Height, and Weight
There are conflicting reports on his height. Some sources state he is 5 feet 7 inches tall, while others report he is 5 feet 11 inches tall. His weight is reported as either 68 kg or 72 kg.
Frequently Asked Questions About Andrew Ridgeley
What is Andrew Ridgeley famous for?
He is best known as one-half of Wham!, one of the most successful pop duos of the 1980s.
What did Andrew Ridgeley do after Wham!?
He pursued motor racing and acting, released a solo album (Son of Albert), and later focused on environmental activism.
Is Andrew Ridgeley still active today?
While no longer active in music or acting, he continues to engage in environmental causes and occasional public appearances.
What is Andrew Ridgeley’s memoir about?
His memoir Wham! George & Me recounts his friendship with George Michael and their journey as part of Wham!
How rich is Andrew Ridgeley?
Ridgeley’s net worth is estimated to be between $40 million and $45 million in 2025.
How did Andrew Ridgeley react to George Michael’s death?
Ridgeley, George Michael’s close friend and former Wham! bandmate, was deeply affected by Michael’s death on Christmas Day 2016. Ridgeley described the news as a devastating shock, likening it to “a punch to the gut” that left him overwhelmed with grief. He had sent Michael a Christmas message just minutes before learning of his passing from Michael’s sister, Melanie. The loss left Ridgeley in disbelief and consumed by sorrow as he struggled to comprehend the sudden death of his lifelong friend and collaborator.
How old is Andrew Ridgeley?
62 years
Is Andrew Ridgeley married?
Andrew Ridgeley has never been married. Furthermore, he does not have biological children but helped raise Keren Woodward’s son, Thomas, during their long-term relationship.
Who were the members of Wham?
While Michael and Ridgeley were the main figures, other musicians contributed to Wham!’s performances and recordings, including Pepsi DeMacque, Shirlie Holliman, Deon Estus, Danny Cummings, Hugh Burns, Mark Fisher, and Trevor Murrell.