Joe Marler’s Star Rises From Rugby Pitch To TV Fame

Joe Marler, once a formidable force on the rugby field, has seamlessly transitioned into a household name in British entertainment, captivating fans with his unique blend of humor and candor. The 35-year-old former England rugby prop, who spent his entire club career with Harlequins, has seen his net worth soar to approximately £3.7 million as of January 17, 2026, according to multiple outlets including Filmogaz and The Mirror. His journey from sports icon to television favorite is a lesson in reinvention, resilience, and the unpredictable joys of public life.

Marler’s professional rugby career began with a bang during the 2009-10 season at Harlequins. Over the years, he racked up two Premiership titles and became a key player for England, earning 95 caps and helping secure three Six Nations crowns before retiring in November 2024. His decision to step away from the sport marked the end of a chapter, but as it turned out, the beginning of an entirely new adventure.

Reflecting on his retirement, Marler told The Mail in late 2025, “It’s been a wild year. Very up and down. After I retired last year there was a three or four-month honeymoon period that felt like an extended off season. We went to Lapland with the kids. Then it dawned on me, 'Hang on a minute, what do I do now?'” The emotional rollercoaster of leaving behind the structure and camaraderie of professional sport left Marler feeling a bit adrift. “I spent a few months floating about, a little bit lost with it all. Me and Daisy [his wife] had only really known our lives together when I was away for half the year. As hard as it was for her with the four kids, we made it work. Then, when The Traitors came out, everything went nuts. I didn't know it was going to be that big.”

Indeed, Marler’s next act came in the form of reality television. He was selected for the first season of the BBC’s Celebrity Traitors in 2025, a show that would thrust him back into the spotlight. As a Faithful, he made it all the way to the final, only to be voted out in a dramatic finish that saw comedian Alan Carr take home the prize for charity. The show not only showcased Marler’s charisma and outspoken personality, but also endeared him to a new legion of fans.

“Things just exploded,” Marler recalled. “'Do you want to come on this? Do you want to come on that? Do you want to do Gogglebox?' All these amazing things I'd watched as a fan. I was like 'Oh my God, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.' I was saying yes to everything in fear of not getting the opportunity again but I then found it really hard to enjoy because it was so full on. In eight weeks, I think I had three days off.”

His willingness to embrace new opportunities paid off handsomely. Marler’s appearances on shows like Celebrity Gogglebox and Who Wants To Be A Millionaire further cemented his place in British popular culture. The financial rewards have matched the public adoration, with his net worth steadily climbing thanks to these ventures. As Entertainment Daily noted, “His pockets have grown larger as a result. Over the course of his glittering career and in the time he's been retired, Marler has amassed an estimated net worth of around £3.7million. TV appearances have bolstered this and as these continue, this number is expected to continue to climb.”

Marler’s most recent foray into television came on January 17, 2026, when he appeared as the contestant on the “Midnight Gameshow” segment of Michael McIntyre’s Big Show. According to BBC and Wales Online, the show’s premise involves surprising a celebrity at home while they’re fast asleep and challenging them to a series of games while only half awake—and in Marler’s case, half dressed. The segment turned into a hilarious rugby reunion and prank, with Welsh rugby referee-turned-farmer Nigel Owens and former player Adam Jones joining the fun.

McIntyre, preparing to wake Marler, struggled to fit a gum shield, prompting Owens to quip, “If he does decide to punch you, a gumshield isn't going to make much difference.” Once inside, Owens warned Marler, “No nonsense, listen to the rules, not like you've done before,” before the two shared a friendly embrace. Marler was tasked with identifying three people in a scrum formation—he quickly recognized Jones, joking, “If it's who I think it is, you're going to need some help my friend.” The banter continued, with Marler telling Jones, “We're having words. Not now, but we're having something,” before grinning and adding, “It's really nice to see you though.”

Longtime fans of Marler were treated to more than just his television antics this week. On January 12, 2026, he posted a shirtless photo on Instagram, cheekily captioned “New Year, Same Moobs.” The post, described as a “thirst trap” by Entertainment Daily, sent followers into a frenzy, with many demanding a revival of his OnlyFans account. Marler had previously launched an OnlyFans in 2023, humorously selling photos of his feet. In a tongue-in-cheek announcement, he said, “Hey you, yeah you. I’ve seen the way you’re looking at my feet. 9/10 certified by a foot health specialist. Want to get your hands on these trotters? Well, now you can. Head on over to @JoseMalaTrotters on OnlyFans.” The account was short-lived, but the recent social media buzz shows fans’ appetite for more of Marler’s playful side.

Beyond the laughs and late-night TV surprises, Marler’s story is also one of personal growth and adaptation. The transition out of professional sport is notoriously tough, but Marler has navigated it with openness and a willingness to embrace the unknown. “I knew I had The Traitors coming up because we recorded it back in May. It was a bit of fun but I didn't envisage what would come off the back of it. I was still a bit lost,” he admitted. The whirlwind of new opportunities, while exciting, has also been overwhelming at times—a sentiment many athletes share when the structure of daily training and competition is suddenly gone.

As Marler continues to find his footing in the entertainment world, his popularity shows no sign of waning. His upcoming and recent television appearances, candid interviews, and social media presence have all contributed to his growing brand. According to Filmogaz, “As Joe Marler continues to grow his brand in the entertainment world, his journey from rugby star to television personality remains an inspiring narrative for fans and aspiring athletes alike.”

Joe Marler’s ability to reinvent himself, embrace vulnerability, and keep his sense of humor intact has made him a beloved figure far beyond the rugby pitch. With his fortune and fame on the rise, it’s clear that Marler’s second act is just getting started—and fans are eager to see what he’ll do next.