Born in January 1963 in the city of Bristol, England, James May is a TV presenter and a journalist best known for his role in the TV show entitled ‘Top Gear’ that also features Richard Hammond and Jeremy Clarkson. He has also appeared in other TV shows about science and technology, wines, and toys among others.
So, how wealthy is James May? What’s his net worth, as of early 2016? James May is estimated to have a net worth approaching $15 million. Of course he has acquired his wealth thanks to his career as a TV presenter, reportedly paid thousands of dollars to host every show of ‘Top Gear.’ He also writes a column for The Daily Telegraph, in which he discusses the motoring sector.
James May Net Worth $15 Million
James May was born into a family of four children: one brother and two sisters. He joined Caerleon Endowed Junior School located in Newport, and later enrolled at Bowland Collage and Lancaster University, where he studied Engineering. Soon after his graduation, he went to work as a records officer in a hospital located in Chelsea, but his time there was brief. During the early 80s, he worked with The Engineer as a sub-editor, and later moved to Autocar Magazine, where he was fired following a prank he performed. Since then, he has written for numerous publications such as Car Magazine, Top Gear and The Daily Telegraph. All have contributed to his net worth.
In 1998, James May presented a show called ‘Driven,’ which aired on Channel 4. He was then invited to co-host ‘Top Gear’ in 2003 when the show entered its second season. In 2006, he co-hosted ‘London Boat Show,’ which premiered on ITV1. While working as a host in the show, he was nicknamed “Captain Slow” because of his driving style. Although Top Gear was willing to renew his contract in March 2015, James declined in April.
In 2006, James May wrote a book called ‘May on Motor,’ a collection of articles he has published. That same year, he also co-authored ‘OZ and James Wine Adventure,’ a book based on a TV series bearing the same name. He also wrote ‘Long Lane with Turnings’ and ‘Notes from the Hard Shoulder.’ These activities saw him earn a lot of money, increasing his net worth with time.
James May has had tremendous success when it comes to his career as a presenter and journalist. Besides having the opportunity to showcase the latest vehicles by major car manufacturers, newspapers and magazines in the UK have also featured his columns, making him extremely popular. In July 2010, Lancaster University rewarded him an honorary degree.
In his personal life, James May got into a relationship with Sarah Frater, a dance critic, in 2000. Although he lives with her in the district of Hammersmith, West London, they have never married, nor have any kids. His absence in ‘Top Gear,’ continues to be felt. May says that he still loves cars, and will continue to write columns on motors.
