James May is a man that most in TV, journalism & writing would know; however, he is an automotive household name. James May, best known as one of the co-hosts of the worldwide phenomenon known as Top Gear and, more recently, The Grand Tour, has spent decades in the industry. This piece discusses May’s net worth, early life, career, real estate, personal life, and FAQ.
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What is the net worth of James May?
He has a net worth is estimated to be $40 million. He has made a fortune from his TV gigs, book deals and other investments. Between his various independent TV shows and writings, plus hosting Top Gear and The Grand Tour, May’s TV work helped elevate his financial status quite a lot.
Early Life
James Daniel May was born on Jan. 16, 1963, in Bristol, England. Raised in a working-class family with three siblings, he was accepted into more than a dozen colleges and universities. His father managed in the steel industry, while his mother was a nurse. But May had an early affinity for cars and engineering that would eventually dictate his future.
He then went on to study at the local secondary school, Oakwood Comprehensive, in Rotherham. James studied music at Lancaster University, where he was part of the Pendle College choir. Fans who only know him as a car guy are often surprised by his musical background.
| Heading | Details |
| Full Name | James Daniel May |
| Date of Birth | January 16, 1963 |
| Place of Birth | Bristol, England |
| Profession | Television Presenter, Journalist, Author |
| Known For | Co-hosting Top Gear and The Grand Tour |
| Education | Lancaster University (Music Degree) |
| Career Highlights | – Co-host of Top Gear (2003–2015) |
| – Co-host of The Grand Tour (2016–present) | |
| – Host of James May: Our Man in… series | |
| Books Authored | – May on Motors |
| – James May’s 20th Century | |
| – James May’s Toy Stories | |
| Net Worth | Estimated $25 Million (as of 2024) |
| Awards and Honors | – International Emmy for Top Gear |
| – Nominated for BAFTA TV Awards | |
| Hobbies | – Flying (Licensed Pilot) |
| – Collecting Motorcycles | |
| Personal Life | Long-term partner Sarah Frater |
| Interesting Facts | – Nicknamed “Captain Slow” for his cautious driving style on Top Gear |
| – Passionate about engineering and technology | |
| Social Media Presence | Twitter: @MrJamesMay |
| Current Projects | – Hosting The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime |
| – Working on new Our Man in… travel series |
Writing Career
Jame’s May had his beginnings as a journalist before he became a television presenter. He wrote for the likes of Autocar, The Engineer and Car Magazine. While May’s dry sense of humour and unique writing style brought him plenty of attention, fans love to tell the story of his notorious firing from Autocar for writing a hidden message in an article.
Books and Publications
Jame’s May has had multiple books published (most co-authored with one or more other notable personalities) over the years, mostly about cars, technology, and travel. In addition to his work on the screen, some of his hit books include:
- May on Motors: Driving with James May (2006)
- May’s Car Fever (2009)
- Jame’s Toy Stories (2010)
- Oh Cook! : 60 Easy Recipes (2020)
His articles and books have solidified that this is a man of insight and humor.
Television Career
Top Gear
Jame’s first big break came in 2003, when he was brought on board Top Gear, alongside Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond. Often deadpan and nicknamed “Captain Slow,” May offered a counterweight to the show’s dynamic. While he was a much slower driver than his lead in the series, the list of challenges and the epic road trips that brought him and Top Gear to the attention of people around the world.
The Grand Tour
After leaving Top Gear in 2015 amid a row over Jeremy Clarkson, May teamed up with Clarkson and Hammond for The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime Video. The show kept a lot of Top Gear’s chicanery and snark in friendly competition with a global audience, for which May was amply rewarded.
Solo Projects
James May has also been behind some successful solo projects, including:
- James May’s Toy Stories (2009-2011)
- James : Our Man in Japan (2020)
- May: Oh Cook! (2020)
- James May: Our Man in Italy (2022)
From travel documentaries to cooking my way to a career, these shows are a testament to several of his interests catering to the foods of his career portfolio.
Read More: Celine Dion Net Worth
Personal Life
James has been in a long-term relationship with Sarah Frater (a dance critic) since 2000. The couple prefers to keep their lives private and has decided against marriage.May is famously modest and down-to-earth for a man in his position.
Hobbies and Interests
Outside of his career, May cares passionately about:
- Classic cars and motorcycles
- He plays the piano and flute. Music.
- Air Travel (he has a pilot’s license)
Real Estate
James May is also known for some of his properties. He has multiple properties in the UK, including an approximate $5 million house located in Hammersmith, West London. May also has a country getaway where he spends time away from the spotlight, according to reports.
His properties betray his love of classic architecture and modern amenities, combining style and comfort.
FAQs About James May
1. How much is James May Net worth?
Net Worth: $40 Million James May Net Worth: James May is an English television presenter and journalist who has a net worth of $40 million.
2. What is James May’s nickname?
We know James May as “Captain Slow” and how he drives carefully.
3. Does James May own any cars?
James is indeed a car person, owning such well-known classics as the Ferrari 458 Speciale and Porsche 911.
