James Corden is once again lighting up our screens as the beloved sitcom Gavin & Stacey returns for one final holiday episode, closing the curtain on the iconic show. Since its debut in 2007, Gavin & Stacey not only captured hearts across the UK but also laid the foundation for Corden’s remarkable rise to fame. The actor, who played Gavin's best friend Smithy, transitioned from his television roots to become the host of The Late Late Show from 2015 to 2023, where his charm and humor drew widespread acclaim.
Following his departure from the US late-night scene, Corden has chosen to reestablish his life back home, focusing on family and new opportunities. The return to the UK came as Corden and his wife, Julia Carey, decided to raise their three children closer to their family. "I love where we live, I love being Los Angeles... but we always knew it was an adventure and not a final destination," Corden shared.
Corden was born on August 22, 1978, and celebrated his 46th birthday earlier this year. He and Julia Carey wed in 2012 after being introduced by actor Dominic Cooper. Their relationship blossomed at a charity event, and James recounted the moment they met, saying, "I said, 'Hi, Jules. You might be the most beautiful woman in the world.'" Since then, the couple has welcomed three children: Max, Carey, and Charlotte. Balancing his career and family commitments has not been without challenges.
Before relocating, Corden sold his seven-bedroom home in Brentwood, California, for $17 million, emphasizing the importance of family connections. "It’s been brilliant, and hard, and overwhelming," he described the move back, acknowledging the emotional and logistical challenges of uprooting his children. He noted the desire for his kids to grow up knowing their grandparents and experiencing life as he did.
With his return to the UK, Corden is adapting to his new lifestyle. The family has settled down in London, where they enjoy the perks of British life, including outdoor spaces and family gatherings. Corden has also launched his podcast titled This Life of Mine, which allows him to engage with fans and share insights from his life beyond television.
The comedian has amassed considerable wealth throughout his career, with estimates of his net worth ranging between £50 million and £70 million due to his numerous television and film endeavors. His role on The Late Late Show reportedly earned him around £6 million annually, significantly contributing to his fortune.
Although Corden's career has brought him worldwide recognition, he remains grounded when it concerns his family. He often expresses the struggles and joys of parenting during interviews. Reflecting on his children, he admits, "I do feel like there is a strong chance... certainly one of our children will want to seek a life in performing arts. But I don't know we need to kick it off now." This shows his desire to provide them with childhood experiences without the pressure of fame.
Outside of his immediate family, Corden's social circle includes notable figures, including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, with whom he socialized during his time in California. He recalls sharing family meals and playdates with them, adding another layer of intrigue to his already colorful life.
Returning to Gavin & Stacey, fans are eagerly awaiting the final episode, hoping to see how Corden's character and Ruth Jones' Nessa—who famously proposed to Smithy—navigate their future. Throughout the years, Corden and Jones nurtured their creative partnership, which began with the iconic series Fat Friends and blossomed with the unforgettable moments of Gavin & Stacey.
After years of making audiences laugh on television and enjoying commercial success, Corden is adjusting to his current phase of life, prioritizing family time and recalibrated career pursuits. The legacy of Gavin & Stacey is cemented, but James Corden's story is far from over. He has proven he can thrive both on stage and at home as he navigates this new chapter with his family.
