James Corden, an English actor, comedian, writer, and television presenter, has built an impressive net worth of $70 million as of 2025. Best known for hosting The Late Late Show from 2015 until 2023, Corden’s career spans acting, writing, and production, showcasing his versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. His rise to international fame was marked by a blend of comedic timing, musical talent, and an innate ability to connect with audiences. In this article, we explore James Corden’s journey from his early acting days in the UK to becoming a Hollywood heavyweight, his financial success, and the controversies and milestones that have defined his career.
Early Life and Acting Beginnings
James Kimberley Corden was born on August 22, 1978, in Hillingdon, London, and was raised in the village of Hazelmere. His father was a musician who later sold Bibles, while his mother worked as a social worker. Corden’s interest in performing was evident from a young age, leading him to pursue opportunities in acting and television.
By the age of 18, Corden was booking minor roles, including one-liners in the musical Martin Guerre. His early 20s saw him exploring television reporting while making appearances in British TV series such as Boyz Unlimited, Teachers, Hollyoaks, and Little Britain. These roles, though small, allowed him to refine his craft and gain recognition within the industry.
Corden’s first significant breakthrough came with Fat Friends, a British dramedy that earned him a nomination for a Royal Television Society Award. His role as Jamie Rymer showcased his ability to blend humor with emotional depth, setting the stage for bigger opportunities.
The Gavin & Stacey Phenomenon
James Corden’s career reached new heights when he co-wrote and co-starred in the BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey. The series, which aired from 2007 to 2010, was a massive hit, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Corden played the lovable yet boisterous Smithy, a role that won him a BAFTA for Best Male Comedy Performer.
The success of Gavin & Stacey was not only a testament to Corden’s comedic talent but also highlighted his skills as a writer. The show received multiple awards, including British Comedy Awards, and became a cultural touchstone in the UK. Its impact was so enduring that a Christmas special in 2019 drew over 17 million viewers, making it the most-watched non-sporting event of the decade in the UK.
Corden’s earnings from Gavin & Stacey significantly bolstered his net worth and opened doors to more prominent roles in television and film.
From the UK to Hollywood: The Late Late Show
In March 2015, James Corden succeeded Craig Ferguson as the host of CBS’s The Late Late Show. The move was seen as a gamble, given Corden’s limited recognition in the United States. However, his charm, wit, and innovative approach to the talk show format quickly won over American audiences.
His annual salary for The Late Late Show was reportedly $9 million, contributing significantly to his $70 million net worth. In 2022, Corden announced his departure from the show, walking away from a reported $50 million contract to extend his tenure. His decision to leave was driven by a desire to return to the UK and pursue new creative opportunities.
Corden’s tenure at The Late Late Show was marked by iconic segments such as Carpool Karaoke, Drop the Mic, and Spill Your Guts or Fill Your Guts. The Carpool Karaoke segment, in particular, became a viral sensation, featuring stars like Adele, Justin Bieber, and Elton John. Its popularity led to a licensing deal with Apple Music, where Corden served as an executive producer, earning substantial royalties.
Carpool Karaoke and Other Ventures
Carpool Karaoke originated as a sketch on Gavin & Stacey but found new life on The Late Late Show. The segment’s appeal lay in its simplicity—celebrities singing their hits with Corden while driving around Los Angeles. Some editions, like the one featuring Adele, have garnered over 200 million views on YouTube.
The segment’s success extended to a licensing deal with Apple Music in 2016, which adapted Carpool Karaoke into a series with different hosts. Corden’s role as the creator and executive producer ensured a steady income stream, significantly enhancing his net worth.
Corden’s production company, Fulwell 73, also played a key role in expanding his wealth. The company produced Seatbelt Psychic for Lifetime and co-produced various TV specials and events, including The Grammy Awards. These projects have been instrumental in diversifying Corden’s income sources beyond acting and hosting.
Acting Career: Films and Voice Roles
Corden’s acting career includes a mix of theatrical, film, and voice-over roles. He made his mark in Hollywood with appearances in Into the Woods (2014), Trolls (2016), Peter Rabbit (2018), and its sequel Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway (2021). His voice work in animated films, such as The Emoji Movie and Smallfoot, contributed significantly to his earnings.
Notable live-action roles include Ocean’s 8, The Prom, and Cinderella. Corden’s ability to transition seamlessly between genres has been a key factor in his sustained success in Hollywood.
His stage work also deserves mention. Corden won a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for his role in One Man, Two Guvnors (2011), a performance that was widely acclaimed by critics.
Real Estate Investments
In October 2017, James Corden purchased a mansion in Brentwood, Los Angeles, for $9.7 million from Modern Family creator Steve Levitan. The property, featuring seven bedrooms, a home theater, and a swimming pool, reflected Corden’s growing wealth and Hollywood status.
In 2022, Corden listed the house for $22 million but ultimately sold it for $17 million in May 2023. The sale, while below the asking price, still represented a substantial profit and highlighted Corden’s savvy in real estate investments.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
James Corden has been married to Julia Carey since 2012. The couple, who met through mutual friend Dominic Cooper, has three children. Corden’s family life has remained relatively private, despite his fame, with the family relocating to London following his departure from The Late Late Show.
In 2015, Corden was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his contributions to drama. His philanthropic efforts include supporting charities focused on children’s welfare and healthcare, leveraging his fame for various charitable causes.
Controversies and Challenges
Corden’s career has not been without controversy. Allegations of a difficult on-set demeanor and backlash over certain comedy sketches have occasionally marred his public image. Additionally, revelations that Corden did not actually drive during Carpool Karaoke due to safety concerns led to a minor scandal. Corden addressed the issue with humor, mitigating potential damage to his reputation.
