When discussing iconic British television and film figures, Ricky Tomlinson’s name sits firmly at the top. From his memorable role as Jim Royle in The Royle Family to his decades of activism and comedy, Tomlinson’s journey has been one of resilience, humor, and working-class pride. Fans and readers often ask, How much is Ricky Tomlinson worth? But beyond the numbers, who is Ricky Tomlinson? Let’s take a closer look at his net worth, life story, family, music, books, and his enduring presence on screen well into 2024 and 2025.
How Much Is Ricky Tomlinson Worth?
The question “How much is Ricky Tomlinson worth?” doesn’t have a single straightforward answer. According to multiple online sources and celebrity wealth estimators, his net worth is estimated to fall somewhere between $5 million and $20 million.
- Some blogs and celebrity tracking websites report the lower end of around $5 million (£4 million).
- Other sources, including older celebrity wealth listings, place him at around $20 million.
It’s worth stressing that these figures are only estimates; Ricky Tomlinson himself has never confirmed his net worth publicly. Much of his wealth comes from his long television and film career, royalties from reruns of The Royle Family and Brookside, appearances in popular films like Mike Bassett: England Manager, and income from his autobiography and music releases.
In short, while estimates vary, fans can confidently say Ricky Tomlinson has built a comfortable legacy from decades in the spotlight.
Who Is Ricky Tomlinson?
Born Eric Tomlinson on 26 September 1939 in Blackpool, England, Ricky grew up in Liverpool and is strongly associated with the city. He trained as a plasterer before pursuing acting, and his working-class roots deeply influenced his humor and career.
- Age: As of 2025, Ricky Tomlinson is 86 years old.
- Profession: Actor, comedian, author, activist, and musician.
- Breakthrough Roles: Bobby Grant in Brookside (Channel 4, 1982–1988) and Jim Royle in The Royle Family (BBC, 1998–2012).
Tomlinson’s acting style combines humor with authenticity, making him a beloved figure in British households for decades.
Ricky Tomlinson Book
Ricky Tomlinson is not only a performer but also an author. His most notable book is his autobiography, “Ricky” (first published in 2003).
The book chronicles:
- His early life and working-class upbringing.
- His involvement with trade unions and activism.
- His controversial time in prison after the 1972 builders’ strike (known as the Shrewsbury 24 case).
- His breakthrough and career in British television.
The autobiography is both candid and humorous, offering fans a raw look at his struggles and triumphs.
Ricky Tomlinson Prison Story
One of the most dramatic chapters in Tomlinson’s life was his imprisonment in 1973. As part of the Shrewsbury 24, Ricky was arrested after participating in a national builders’ strike. He was sentenced to two years in prison for conspiracy to intimidate, a ruling that he and supporters long contested as politically motivated.
- In 2021, the Court of Appeal overturned his conviction, declaring it unsafe.
- The quashing of the conviction was a major victory for Tomlinson and fellow activists, bringing closure to a decades-long fight for justice.
This prison experience shaped his politics, activism, and creative outlook, and remains a defining element of his public identity.
Ricky Tomlinson Songs and Music Career
Not everyone knows that Ricky also dabbled in music and comedy songs.
- In 2001, he released the single “Are You Lookin’ at Me?” which entered the UK Singles Chart at #28.
- His comedy album “Music My Arse” (2001) reached #127 in the UK Albums Chart.
- In 2006, his festive track “Christmas My Arse” became a novelty hit, climbing to #25.
These light-hearted ventures into music reflect Tomlinson’s larger-than-life personality and his ability to connect with audiences through humor in multiple forms.
Ricky Tomlinson Movies and TV Shows
Ricky Tomlinson’s acting credits are vast, covering both television and film.
Television Highlights:
- Brookside – Bobby Grant (1982–1988).
- Cracker – DCI Charlie Wise (1993–1995).
- The Royle Family – Jim Royle (1998–2012).
- Playing the Field, In the Flesh, The Witchfinder, Great Night Out, and more.
- Travel and nostalgia programs like Ricky & Ralf’s Very Northern Road Trip and Ricky, Sue & a Trip or Two.
Film Highlights:
- Mike Bassett: England Manager (2001).
- The 51st State (Formula 51) (2001).
- Raining Stones (1993).
- Once Upon a Time in the Midlands (2002).
- Northern Soul (2014).
- Grimsby (2016).
This impressive portfolio shows how Tomlinson transitioned seamlessly from serious roles to comedy and family entertainment.
Ricky Tomlinson and Sue Johnston
One of the most beloved partnerships in British television has been between Ricky Tomlinson and Sue Johnston.
- They first appeared as husband and wife, Bobby and Sheila Grant, in Brookside.
- They reunited as Jim and Barbara Royle in The Royle Family.
- More recently, they’ve been seen traveling together in the Channel 4 show Ricky, Sue & a Trip or Two (2023–2024).
- In 2025, the duo delighted fans again by participating in a special Brookside and Hollyoaks crossover celebrating Channel 4’s legacy.
Their chemistry both on and off screen remains a highlight for fans who have followed their careers for decades.
Ricky Tomlinson Son Gareth and Family
Ricky Tomlinson has kept much of his family life private, but it is known that he has three children from his first marriage.
- His eldest son, Clifton, tragically passed away in 2004 at just 33.
- Reports from several outlets suggest his other children include Gareth and Kate, though these names are less frequently mentioned in mainstream biographies.
Ricky rarely discusses family matters publicly, but the loss of his son Clifton was a particularly painful chapter in his personal life.
Ricky Tomlinson Now (2024–2025)
Even in his mid-80s, Ricky Tomlinson continues to stay active on screen.
- 2024: Appeared with Sue Johnston in DNA Journey, exploring family heritage. Continued to front Ricky, Sue & a Trip or Two, delighting fans with travel and nostalgia.
- 2025: Made headlines again with the Brookside and Hollyoaks crossover, celebrating 30 years of Hollyoaks and reuniting with Johnston once more.
His charm and humor remain undimmed, and audiences are eager to see him on screen whenever he returns.
Ricky Tomlinson Age
As of October 2025, Ricky Tomlinson is 86 years old. Born in 1939, his longevity in the entertainment industry is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and ability to stay relevant across generations.
Ricky Tomlinson 2024 and Ricky Tomlinson 2025: A Legacy Still Growing
The years 2024 and 2025 have shown that Ricky Tomlinson’s star has not faded. His partnership with Sue Johnston remains a cultural touchstone, his old shows continue to attract reruns, and his activism still inspires working-class communities.
At a time when many actors would have retired quietly, Tomlinson continues to be a public figure of resilience, humor, and authenticity.
Conclusion: How Much Is Ricky Tomlinson Worth?
From his days as a plasterer to his prison ordeal, from his music to his best-selling autobiography, and from Jim Royle to Bobby Grant, Ricky Tomlinson has lived a life unlike any other.
So, How much is Ricky Tomlinson worth? Depending on which source you trust, anywhere from $5 million to $20 million. But perhaps the better question is not about money at all—it’s about cultural worth. Ricky Tomlinson has given the UK generations of laughter, drama, and honesty, and that makes him priceless in the eyes of fans.
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