James Corden, a renowned English actor, comedian, writer, producer, and host, has built a remarkable career that has earned him an estimated net worth of $70 million. Gaining fame in the United Kingdom, Corden eventually captured international audiences after stepping into the role of host on The Late Late Show in March 2015. He continued entertaining audiences with his wit and humor until his exit in May 2023. Beyond his talk show fame, Corden’s talent extends into theater, television, and film.
A Look at His Salary and Career Earnings
While hosting The Late Late Show, James Corden reportedly earned an impressive $9 million annually. His contract with CBS was rumored to be worth around $50 million, but Corden chose to walk away rather than renew. His decision was driven by a desire to focus on other aspects of his career and personal life. Besides his show’s earnings, he also profited from his production company, Fulwell 73, which produced shows like Seatbelt Psychic for Lifetime in 2018.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born on August 22, 1978, in Hillingdon, London, James Corden was raised in the village of Hazelmere. His mother worked as a social worker, while his father, a musician, eventually transitioned to selling Bibles. Even as a teenager, Corden’s flair for entertainment became evident. By the age of 18, he landed small roles in films such as Martin Guerre.
During his early twenties, he explored various opportunities, including working as a television reporter. At the same time, he took on roles in series like Boyz Unlimited, Teachers, Hollyoaks, Little Britain, and others. As his acting career gained momentum, Corden was cast in commercials and later appeared in films like Whatever Happened to Harold Smith?, All or Nothing, Heartlands, and Cruise of the Gods.
Rising to Fame with Breakthrough Projects
Though Corden had been steadily building his acting résumé, real fame came in the early 2000s. His role in Fat Friends earned him a nomination for a Royal Television Society Award, signaling his arrival as a serious actor. His theater role in the 2004 production of The History Boys further cemented his reputation, leading to his appearance in the film adaptation of the play.
Determined to create his own path, Corden co-wrote and starred in the sitcom Gavin & Stacey, which became a massive hit with audiences and critics alike. The show earned him a BAFTA for Best Male Comedy Performer and recognition at the British Comedy Awards. Gavin & Stacey enjoyed widespread success throughout its run before concluding in 2010.
Life After Gavin & Stacey
Initially, Corden struggled to replicate the success of Gavin & Stacey with other projects. Many of his early attempts to branch out were met with lukewarm responses. However, once Gavin & Stacey ended, he began focusing on new, more substantial ventures that showcased his versatility.
Corden created A League of Their Own, a show that blended comedy with sports journalism, focusing on British football. He also collaborated with England’s national soccer team on various comedic skits. Fans of Doctor Who may recognize him as Craig Owens, a recurring character in several episodes.
His film career also began to take off around this time. In 2010, he starred in Gulliver’s Travels, followed by a role in The Three Musketeers in 2011. The same year, he led the stage play One Man, Two Guvnors, which was a massive success, earning praise from critics and audiences alike.
In more recent years, Corden has appeared in movies such as Ocean’s 8, The Prom, and Cinderella. He also lent his voice to popular animated films, including Trolls, The Emoji Movie, Smallfoot, Superintelligence, and Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. Additionally, he was involved in Game On! and took on an executive producer role for Mammals.
Hosting The Late Late Show: A New Chapter
Corden gained global recognition when he took over The Late Late Show in 2015, succeeding Craig Ferguson. His charismatic personality and unique approach to hosting made the show a major success, earning him multiple Emmy nominations. Despite his success, Corden admitted in 2019 that the relentless pace of daily hosting was wearing on him, although he extended his contract for a few more years.
In 2022, Corden officially announced that he would step down from the show in 2023, bringing an end to a highly successful chapter of his career.
The Phenomenon of Carpool Karaoke
One of Corden’s most popular creations is Carpool Karaoke, a segment that began in 2011 as part of a sketch for Gavin & Stacey. After becoming host of The Late Late Show, Corden revived the concept, turning it into a viral sensation. The segment features Corden driving around with celebrities as they sing along to popular songs.
Some of the biggest stars, including Adele, Mariah Carey, Elton John, Britney Spears, Justin Bieber, and Stevie Wonder, have participated. Adele’s episode alone has over 200 million views on YouTube, and Carpool Karaoke became the platform’s most-watched viral video in 2016.
In 2016, Apple Music acquired the rights to produce a version of Carpool Karaoke, turning it into a standalone series with different hosts. Corden remained involved as the creator and executive producer.
However, the show faced some controversy when behind-the-scenes footage revealed that Corden wasn’t actually driving the car during filming due to safety reasons. Although he appeared to be behind the wheel, the vehicle was often towed during taping, a fact that surprised some fans.
Personal Life and Family
James Corden married Julia Carey in 2012, and the couple shares three children — a son born in 2011 and two daughters born in 2014 and 2017. The pair were introduced by actor Dominic Cooper, a close friend of Corden’s. Following Corden’s appointment to The Late Late Show, the family relocated to Los Angeles.
In recognition of his contributions to drama, Corden was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2015 during the New Year Honours.
Luxury Homes and Real Estate
In 2017, Corden purchased a luxurious mansion in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles for $9.7 million. The property previously belonged to Modern Family creator Steve Levitan. Corden and Carey put the house on the market in early 2022 for $22 million. Although initially listed higher, they ultimately sold it in May 2023 for $17 million.
In addition to his Los Angeles residence, Corden owns homes in Belsize Park, London, and a countryside estate called Templecombe House located in Wargrave, Berkshire.
