Overview

James Cameron Davidson OBE (born 13 December 1953) is an English stand-up comedian, actor, singer and TV presenter. He is known for hosting television shows like Big Break and The Generation Game. Notorious for his controversial brand of black comedy, Davidson has often faced criticism for jokes regarding various minority groups. He began his comedy career in a pub in Woolwich, and later found success on the London comedy circuit. Davidson has also entertained the British Armed Forces and chairs the British Forces Foundation charity. He received an OBE in 2001 for his charitable services.

British Forces Foundation

Chairman
What is Jim Davidson’s Net Worth?

What Is Jim Davidson’s Net Worth?

Jim Davidson, the English comedian, actor, singer, and television host, has accumulated a substantial net worth estimated at $10 million. This financial standing is a result of his diverse career spanning several decades, encompassing television appearances, stage performances, and other ventures.

Television Career and Earnings

Davidson’s television career has been a significant contributor to his net worth. He gained prominence as the host of popular game shows such as “Big Break,” which he hosted from 1991 to 2002 on BBC1. His role as the host of “The Generation Game,” taking over from Bruce Forsyth in 1995 and continuing until 2002, also added considerably to his earnings. While specific salary figures for these hosting roles are not publicly available, such prominent positions on prime-time television would have commanded substantial compensation packages.

In 1979, Davidson secured his own television program, “The Jim Davidson Show,” which aired for five seasons until 1982. This early success established him as a television personality and laid the foundation for future opportunities. From 1983 to 1985, he starred in the ITV sitcom “Up the Elephant and Round the Castle,” playing the character Jim London. He reprised this role in the sequel sitcom “Home James!,” which ran from 1987 to 1990. While precise financial details of these acting roles remain undisclosed, they contributed to his overall income during the 1980s.

In 2007, Davidson participated in the third season of the ITV cooking reality series “Hell’s Kitchen.” Although his appearance was cut short due to controversial remarks, his participation would have come with a fee. In 2014, he participated in and won the 13th season of “Celebrity Big Brother.” Winning this show would have resulted in a substantial monetary prize, although the exact amount is not publicly accessible.

Stage Performances and Productions

Davidson’s stage performances, particularly his adult pantomime shows, have contributed to his net worth. He produced and starred in shows such as “Sinderella” (1995) and “Boobs in the Wood” (1999). While specific financial details from these productions are not publicly available, these shows likely generated revenue through ticket sales and merchandise. These stage productions would have required significant financial investment, but they would have also provided substantial returns if successful.

He also toured with the play “Stand Up…And Be Counted,” which explored themes related to racism in comedy. The financial success of this tour would depend on ticket sales, venue sizes, and the duration of the tour, none of which are currently available to the public.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born on December 13, 1953, in London, England, to an Irish mother and a Scottish father, Jim Davidson’s early life provided the foundation for his later success. He attended Kidbrooke Park Primary School and St. Austin’s School. Although he briefly attended theater school in Woolwich, his early career path was not straightforward. He held various odd jobs, including working as a supermarket shelf stacker, air ticket clerk, and window cleaner. These early experiences instilled a strong work ethic that would later serve him well in his entertainment career.

Davidson’s entry into comedy began at a pub in Woolwich when he filled in for the regular stand-up comedian. This impromptu performance led to regular appearances on the London comedy circuit. In the 1970s, he gained wider recognition by finishing second on the television talent show “New Faces.” This exposure provided a significant boost to his career, leading to more opportunities in television and stage performance. However, specific earnings from these early performances are not publicly documented.

Other Ventures and Activities

Beyond his television and stage work, Davidson has engaged in other ventures that have contributed to his net worth. He has entertained the British Armed Forces and serves as the chairman of the British Forces Foundation. While these activities may not directly translate into substantial income, they enhance his public profile and open doors to other opportunities.

Davidson is a Freemason and a member of the Westminster City Council Lodge No. 2882. His involvement in these organizations reflects his diverse interests and affiliations, although their direct impact on his financial status is minimal.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Davidson launched a YouTube channel where he posted short videos about current events. He subsequently created the website Jim Davidson TV, which evolved into his business venture, Ustreme. While the specific revenue generated by these online platforms is not public knowledge, they represent an effort to diversify his income streams and engage with his audience in new ways. These platforms would have associated start-up costs, including website development and content creation, but if successful, they can provide ongoing revenue through subscriptions or advertising.

Real Estate Holdings

While specific details about Jim Davidson’s real estate holdings are not widely publicized, it is common for individuals with significant net worth to invest in property. Real estate can provide a stable asset base and potential for appreciation over time. Without specific addresses or names of properties, it is impossible to determine the precise value of his real estate assets.

Vehicle Collection

Information regarding Jim Davidson’s vehicle collection is not publicly accessible. It is plausible that he owns a selection of luxury or classic cars. However, without detailed information, it is difficult to assess the value of his vehicle assets.

Controversies and Legal Issues

Throughout his career, Jim Davidson has faced numerous controversies that have impacted his public image and potentially affected his financial opportunities. His stand-up routines have been criticized for being offensive and discriminatory, leading to public backlash and professional repercussions. In 2007, he was removed from “Hell’s Kitchen” for making homophobic comments toward a gay contestant, which likely resulted in a loss of earnings and future opportunities. The financial impact of these controversies is difficult to quantify, but they undoubtedly affected his career trajectory.

In 1987, Davidson was convicted of driving under the influence and banned from driving for three years. This legal issue would have resulted in fines and legal fees. In 2002, he was escorted from a hotel in Bristol following allegations of abusive behavior towards staff. These incidents can negatively affect public perception and potentially lead to cancelled engagements.

In 2013, Davidson was arrested in connection to Operation Yewtree, a police investigation into sexual abuse allegations. Although the allegations were eventually dismissed, the arrest and subsequent investigations would have incurred significant legal expenses and reputational damage. The financial implications of these legal battles could have been substantial.

Personal Life and Relationships

Jim Davidson’s personal life has been marked by multiple marriages and divorces, each with potential financial implications. He has been married and divorced five times: to Sue Walpole (1971-1972), Julie Gullick (1981-1986), Alison Holloway (1987-1988), Tracy Hilton (1990-2000), and Michelle Cotton (2009-2023). Each divorce settlement likely involved the division of assets, which could have impacted his overall net worth. The specific financial terms of these divorce settlements are not publicly available.

Summary of Jim Davidson’s Net Worth

Jim Davidson’s estimated net worth of $10 million is the culmination of his extensive career in television, stage performance, and other ventures. His success as a comedian, actor, and television host has enabled him to accumulate considerable wealth. While his career has been marked by controversies and personal challenges, he has remained a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, maintaining a substantial net worth.

© 2025 Net Worth Ranker / All Rights Reserved