Sid James Net Worth

Sid James Net Worth: The Incredible Life and Legacy of a Comedy Legend

Introduction

Sid James was a British actor and comedian who rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s. With his distinctive gravelly voice and larger-than-life personality, James became a household name thanks to his performances in classic British comedies such as the Carry On series. But how much was Sid James worth, and what was his legacy?

What was Sid James Net Worth and Salary?

At the time of his death in 1976, Sid James was worth an estimated £400,000, which would be equivalent to over £2 million in today’s money. During his career, he was one of the highest-paid actors in the UK, earning around £2,000 per week at the peak of his popularity.

Early Life and Education

Sid James was born Solomon Joel Cohen on 8th May 1913 in South Africa. His father was a Jewish tailor, and Sid grew up in Johannesburg. After leaving school, he worked as a diamond cutter and also had a brief stint as a prizefighter. However, he soon discovered a talent for comedy, and he began performing on stage in South Africa and later in the UK.

Career

Sid James’s breakthrough role came in the early 1950s when he was cast in a series of British films, including The Lavender Hill Mob and The Galloping Major. However, it was his appearances in the Carry On comedy films that made him a household name. He appeared in 19 of the 31 Carry On films, playing a range of characters including a lecherous conman, a randy Frenchman, and a womanizing army sergeant. His partnership with Barbara Windsor in the Carry On films was particularly popular, and they remain one of the most beloved comedy duos of all time.

Personal Life

Sid James was married three times and had four children. His second marriage to actress Berthe Marie Giuseppina (known as Valerie) Lane lasted from 1952 until her death in 1967. James was also known for his love of gambling and was a regular at London’s famous Clermont Club. Despite being a heavy smoker, he continued to work throughout his life and was known for his professionalism and hard work on set.

Illness and Death

Sid James died on 26th April 1976, while performing on stage in Sunderland. He had suffered a heart attack, and despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards. James’s death was a shock to his fans and colleagues, and many comedians paid tribute to him in the years that followed.

Real Estate

Sid James lived in a number of homes during his life, including a house in Barnes in southwest London, which he shared with his wife Valerie. He later moved to a larger property in Wimbledon, which he owned until his death.

Legacy

Sid James remains one of the most beloved and iconic figures in British comedy. His influence can be seen in the work of many later comedians, and his name is still synonymous with the Carry On films. In 2021, a blue plaque was unveiled in his honour outside his former home in Wimbledon, and he continues to be celebrated as one of the greats of British comedy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was Sid James’s real name?

Sid James’s real name was Solomon Joel Cohen. He changed his name when he started performing on stage.

2. How many Carry On films did Sid James appear in?

Sid James appeared in 19 of the 31 Carry On films, making him one of the most prolific stars of the series.

3. Was Sid James married?

Yes, Sid James was married three times. His second marriage to actress Valerie Lane lasted from 1952 until her death in 1967.

4. Did Sid James have children?

Yes, Sid James had four children – a son and three daughters.

5. What was Sid James’s net worth?

At the time of his death, Sid James was worth an estimated £400,000, which today would be equivalent to over £2 million.

6. Where was Sid James born?

Sid James was born in Johannesburg, South Africa.

7. Did Sid James ever perform outside of the UK?

Yes, Sid James performed in a number of countries outside of the UK, including Australia, where he was a popular figure.

8. What was Sid James’s favourite Carry On film?

According to his daughter, Reina, Sid James’s favourite Carry On film was Carry On Cleo.

9. Did Sid James smoke?

Yes, Sid James was a heavy smoker, and this is thought to have contributed to his early death from a heart attack.

10. Was Sid James known for gambling?

Yes, Sid James was a regular at London’s famous Clermont Club and was known for his love of gambling.

11. What was Sid James’s last film?

Sid James’s last film was Bless This House, which was released in 1972, four years before his death.

12. Who were Sid James’s comedy influences?

Sid James’s comedy influences included Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, and he was also a fan of music hall stars such as Max Miller and Dan Leno.

13. Did Sid James ever work in radio?

Yes, Sid James worked extensively in radio, appearing in a number of comedy shows during his career.

14. Was Sid James involved in any charity work?

Yes, Sid James was involved in a number of charities, including the Variety Club of Great Britain and the Royal Hospital for Neuro-Disability.

15. What was Sid James’s signature catchphrase?

Sid James was known for his catchphrase “Cor blimey!” which he used in many of his performances.