What made James Corden famous?

Some people can’t get enough of him. Others can’t resist the urge to mock him whenever they can. Certainly one group that have been completely captivated by his charms and talent has been those responsible for selecting a host, an actor, a voice or even a ‘driver’ to the singing stars. And he has shown himself to be able to carry a tune himself.

Known around most dining room tables across the USA and United Kingdom alike – as well as further afield – few names and faces are as recognisable as that of James Corden. But where did it all begin and how did his humble beginnings in England evolve to his meteoric rise in Hollywood?

James Corden: TV, comedy and presenting

Born on 22 August 1978 in Hillingdon, London, James Kimberley Corden (yes, that’s where the ‘k’ comes from in his X/Twitter handle @JKCorden) discovered his passion for performing at a young age. His early forays into acting and comedy laid the groundwork for what would become a prolific and diverse adventure ahead.

Corden’s breakthrough moment arrived in the mid-2000s with his critically acclaimed performance in the play ‘The History Boys’ by Alan Bennett. His portrayal of the lovable and witty character Timms earned him widespread recognition and set the stage for his transition to television.

However, it was his role as the lovably hapless Smithy in the hit British sitcom ‘Gavin & Stacey’ that catapulted Corden to household name status. Co-created by Corden and Ruth Jones, the show won numerous awards and garnered a dedicated fan base drawn to its heartfelt humour and endearing characters. If you haven’t seen this clip, or even if you have, enjoy!

With his star on the rise, Corden ventured into hosting, showcasing his comedic chops and affable personality on various talk shows and panel programs. His infectious enthusiasm and quick wit made him a favourite among audiences, earning him a devoted following on both sides of the Atlantic.

‘The Late Late Show with James Corden’

But it was his role as the host of ‘The Late Late Show with James Corden’ that solidified his place in the pantheon of late-night television. Since taking over the reins in 2015, Corden added his own fingerprint to the genre with his innovative segments, viral sketches, and star-studded carpool karaoke sessions, earning widespread acclaim and millions of loyal viewers in the process. Here’s his last episode before CBS decided to pull the plug.

Corden and his movies

Beyond his television endeavours, Corden has also made a significant impact on the big screen, appearing in a diverse array of films ranging from comedies to musicals. His performance in the musical adaptation of ‘Into the Woods’ in 2014 earned him critical praise, further cementing his reputation as a multifaceted talent. Add to that his very recognisable voice used as High Five in ‘The Emoji Movie’ and the protagonist in Peter Rabbit. Then there was that appearance as Bustopher in Andrew Lloyd Weber’s Cats.

In addition to his acting and hosting prowess, Corden is also a skilled writer and producer, with several successful projects to his name. His innate ability to connect with audiences on a personal level has endeared him to fans around the world, making him one of the most beloved and influential figures in entertainment today. He may not be your cup of English tea, but there are many out there who disagree.