We all know celebs make good money, but when you see just how much some of them earn, it’s a bit mind-blowing. From pop stars and footballers to established actors and chefs, the UK has its fair share of big earners.
This isn’t about fame alone—it’s about serious income. These are the people topping rich lists and building fortunes that go well beyond their main jobs.
Here’s a run-down of Britain’s highest-paid celebrities right now—how much do British actors make, and a few things you might not know about their income streams.
Ed Sheeran – approx. £300 million net worth
Ed’s not just one of the UK’s most loved artists—he’s also one of the richest. His ÷ (Divide) tour became the highest-grossing of all time, earning over £600 million globally. In just one year, his company reportedly made over £50 million before live income even kicked in.
He’s still writing songs for other artists, owns a few businesses (including a pub in London), and has a loyal fan base worldwide. That’s a lot of streams—and not the Spotify kind.
Estimated 2024 earnings: ~£200 million
Main income sources: Touring, music sales, songwriting, business ventures
Adele – approx. £170 million net worth
Adele may take her time between albums, but when she returns, it’s always a huge event. Her 2022 album 30 went straight to No. 1, and her Las Vegas residency is rumoured to bring in over £500,000 per show.
She’s very selective about what she does—no endless endorsements, no overexposure. And it works. People queue for her music, and she’s always trending for the right reasons.
Estimated earnings from Vegas shows: £30–40 million (so far)
Main income sources: Album sales, touring, Vegas residency, limited sponsorships
Harry Styles – approx. £120 million net worth
From One Direction to solo stardom, Harry has managed the transition better than most. His Love on Tour shows made millions, and his film career is also taking off, with roles in Dunkirk, Don’t Worry Darling, and My Policeman.
He’s a fashion darling too, regularly working with Gucci and sitting front-row at global fashion weeks. He’s definitely more than just a pop singer now.
Main income sources: Music, acting, brand partnerships
Estimated 2024 income: Around £50–60 million
Lewis Hamilton – approx. £385 million net worth
One of the UK’s greatest-ever athletes, Hamilton isn’t just earning from the track. Yes, his Mercedes F1 contract pays big—he earns £40–50 million a year just in salary. But he also has deals with Tommy Hilfiger, Monster, and even his own fashion line.
Plus, he’s starting to invest in businesses and owns part of the Denver Broncos NFL team. That’s smart money.
Main income sources: F1 salary, endorsements, investments
Estimated 2024 income: £50 million+
Gordon Ramsay – approx. £170–220 million net worth
The famously fiery chef has gone global. With dozens of restaurants, countless TV shows (Kitchen Nightmares, Hell’s Kitchen, Next Level Chef), and a growing YouTube presence, Ramsay’s empire is constantly expanding.
He reportedly earned £70 million in one year alone from TV and restaurants.
Main income sources: TV, restaurants, books, product lines
Estimated 2024 income: £60–70 million
Sir Elton John – approx. £500–550 million net worth
Even at 77, Elton’s still drawing huge crowds. His Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour became one of the top-grossing in history—bringing in nearly £750 million across five years.
He’s also got smart investments, a music publishing empire, and royalties flowing in from decades of classic hits.
Main income sources: Touring, royalties, merchandise
Estimated tour income (recent): £250+ million
Daniel Radcliffe – approx. £90–100 million net worth
Harry Potter changed his life—and his bank balance. Radcliffe made an estimated £80 million from the eight Potter films alone. Since then, he’s kept busy with indie films and stage plays.
He’s not chasing fame, but he’s still making strong money through residuals, new roles, and a clever approach to investing.
Main income sources: Acting, royalties, investments
Estimated 2023 income: £8–10 million
Dua Lipa – approx. £100–115 million net worth
She’s not just a chart-topper anymore—Dua’s becoming a brand. Between her Puma deal, her podcast/newsletter Service95, and her acting debut in Barbie, she’s got loads happening.
Her Future Nostalgia tour was a hit, and she’s picked up major festival bookings across Europe.
Main income sources: Touring, brand partnerships, music
Estimated 2024 income: £30–40 million
Emma Watson – approx. £85–90 million net worth
Like Radcliffe, Emma cashed in on the Harry Potter franchise early in life. Since then, she’s stayed selective—starring in Beauty and the Beast and Little Women, among others.
She’s also a UN Women ambassador, which doesn’t bring in money—but does boost her global profile. She’s said to earn from speaking gigs and endorsements with brands like Lancôme.
Main income sources: Acting, endorsements, public appearances
Estimated 2024 income: £5–8 million
David Beckham – approx. £450–500 million net worth
Becks may have retired from football, but he’s busier than ever. Between co-owning Inter Miami CF (the team that signed Messi), brand deals with Adidas and Tudor, and licensing his name globally, he’s built a fortune that rivals top business moguls.
Victoria’s fashion line and their shared business ventures only add to the pot.
Main income sources: Business, endorsements, football investments
Estimated 2024 income: £50 million+
Final Thoughts
The list of Britain’s highest-paid celebrities changes year to year, but these names tend to stick around. What’s clear is that fame alone doesn’t guarantee income—most of these celebs are working hard behind the scenes, investing smartly, and diversifying how actors earn.
It’s not just about talent either. Timing, business sense, and sometimes just plain likability all play a part.
And while most of us aren’t likely to hit £200 million anytime soon, it’s still fun to see how others are making it work.
