James Corden: Everything fans need to know about Gavin & Stacey star's rise to global fame

James Corden will be back on British TV screens this Christmas, for the final episode of Gavin and Stacey.

The Christmas special has been hitting the headlines for months, with fans eager to find out if Nessa and Smithy finally tie the knot.

Corden, who plays Smithy in the hit BBC show, was born in London and has shot to global fame.

He’s appeared in many popular movies including Peter Rabbit, Cats the Musical, and Trolls.

He’s a household name across the pond too, known for hosting the Late, Late Show. His carpool karaoke series has gone viral countless times.

But despite his international fame and new home in the US, Corden is a London boy at heart. So to celebrate his return to our TV screens, let’s take a look back at his life in LDN.

How old is James Corden?

James Kimberley Corden was born on 22nd August 1978 making him 46-years-old.

How tall is James Corden?

James Corden is 1.73m tall or approximately 5ft 8 inches.

Where is James Corden from?

Although born in Hillingdon, just a stone’s throw from London, James Corden grew up in High Wycombe.

However, it wasn’t long before the magnetic pull of the city brought him to London, where he sharpened his craft.

He studied drama at the Jackie Palmer Stage School, a breeding ground for talent located close to London’s vibrant theatre scene.

As a rising star, Corden became a familiar face in London’s creative hubs, regularly performing at venues like the Soho Theatre and mingling in the city's artistic circles.

Gavin and Stacey

One of James Corden’s most celebrated achievements, Gavin & Stacey, became a cultural touchstone in British television. The show, which he co-wrote with Ruth Jones, follows the romance of Gavin and Stacey, along with their quirky friends and family.

Corden’s portrayal of Smithy, the lovable yet often clueless best friend, won over audiences and critics alike. With its sharp humour and heartfelt moments, the series captured the charm of British life, and London often served as a backdrop for its memorable scenes. It remains a beloved classic, with its Christmas specials drawing millions of viewers.

James Corden: The History Boys and One Man, Two Guvnors’

Corden’s theatrical prowess blossomed in London’s West End. His breakout role in The History Boys not only cemented his status as a stage star but also connected him to the global theatre community.

Corden took the lead as Francis Henshall in the National Theatre adaptation of One Man, Two Guvnors, the show went onto achieve huge success, transferring to the West End and Broadway.

Despite missing out on an Olivier Award in 2012 One Man, Two Guvnors bagged itself a prestigious Tony Award for James Corden’s performance as the loveable rogue, Francis.

James Corden: The Late, Late Show

Despite his move to the U.S. for The Late Late Show, Corden’s London roots remain a significant part of his identity. He’s frequently spotted in the city during visits, whether enjoying a quiet moment in a café or making surprise appearances at charity events.

And who can forget his viral Carpool Karaoke segment with Adele, filmed on the streets of London? The capital city often serves as the backdrop for some of his most memorable projects.

James Corden’s wife and children

James Corden is married to Julia Carey, a television producer. The couple tied the knot in 2012 and share three children: Max, 13, Carey, 10, and Charlotte, 7.

What films has James Corden been in?

James Corden has starred in at least 37 movies throughout his career. They include the films listed below (and many more!)

• Cats
• The Emoji Movie
• Into the Woods
• Trolls
• Peter Rabbit
• One Chance
• Smallfoot
• Cinderella
• Ocean’s 8
• Begin Again
• The Prom
• Lesbian Vampire Killers
• Three Musketeers
• The History Boys
• Trolls World Tour
• Ralph Breaks the Internet
• National Theatre Live: One Man, Two Guvnors’
• Gulliver’s Travels
• Starter for 10
• The Gruffalo
• Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway
• The Gruffalo’s Child