Piers Morgan, a formidable figure in the media world, has built a notable career as a broadcaster, journalist, and writer. Starting his journey in 1988 at The Sun, he quickly made a name for himself with his ambitious and often controversial reporting style. By 1994, at just 29, Morgan became the youngest editor of the News of the World in over fifty years. His diverse roles, from editing major tabloids to leading MailOnline’s US operation, have contributed to his impressive net worth of $20 million, reflecting his influential presence in journalism and television.
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Piers Morgan Net Worth
Piers Morgan, the English broadcaster and journalist, has a reported net worth of $20 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. However, Morgan himself claimed in a Daily Mail column that his net worth is £250 million, which is roughly $346 million USD. This discrepancy could stem from differing asset valuations or possible exaggeration.
His substantial net worth is partly attributed to his investments in ITV, where he previously hosted “Good Morning Britain.” Despite the differing figures, Morgan’s financial standing highlights his success and influence in the media industry.
Piers Morgan’s Salary
Piers Morgan’s salary has varied throughout his career, with notable figures including $2 million annually for hosting “Piers Morgan Tonight.” In 2008, he signed a contract with ITV that paid him approximately $2.6 million per year. These figures reflect Morgan’s high-profile roles and his significant earnings within the broadcasting industry.
Early life and education
Piers Morgan was born on March 30, 1965, in Reigate, Surrey, to Vincent Eamonn O’Meara, an Irish dentist, and Gabrielle Georgina Sybille, an English Catholic. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to Newick, East Sussex. His father passed away when Morgan was just 11 months old, and his mother later married Glynne Pughe-Morgan, a Welsh pub landlord, from whom Piers adopted his stepfather’s surname.
Morgan attended Cumnor House prep school, followed by Chailey School and Priory School for his sixth form. He initially worked at Lloyd’s of London before pursuing journalism studies at Harlow College and began his career with the Surrey and South London Newspaper Group in 1985.
Career
During his career in journalism, Piers Morgan’s trajectory from the early 1980s to the 2010s was marked by several notable roles and controversies. Beginning in 1988, Morgan worked as a freelance writer for The Sun, where he gained prominence as the main writer of the “Bizarre” show business column.
Despite his lack of enthusiasm for pop music, his flair for self-publicity made him a prominent figure. By 1994, Morgan had ascended to the role of editor of the News of the World, becoming the youngest national newspaper editor in over fifty years. His tenure was noted for high-profile scoops but ended in 1995 amid controversy over privacy breaches.
Subsequently, Morgan took the helm at the Daily Mirror, where his leadership saw significant rebranding efforts and notable journalistic scandals, including the publication of fake photos related to the Abu Ghraib scandal. His career in television began with a three-part documentary series and expanded to include judging roles on America’s Got Talent and Britain’s Got Talent.
Despite facing various criticisms and legal issues, including allegations of phone hacking and public feuds, Morgan remained a prominent figure in British media, ultimately taking on roles at MailOnline and continuing his outspoken presence on television.
Piers Morgan Real Estate Assets
Piers Morgan’s real estate portfolio reflects his success and diverse interests. He owns multiple properties, including a Georgian townhouse in London, which he purchased for $719,000, and a country retreat in East Sussex valued around £700,000 to £1.4 million.
His Beverly Hills mansion, acquired for $5.4 million in 2011, features luxurious amenities like a large swimming pool and an indoor bar. Additionally, Morgan has a Grade II listed Kensington townhouse, bought for £4 million, which he has lived in since 2009. Collectively, these properties highlight his significant investments in both the UK and US real estate markets.
Personal life
Piers Morgan married Marion Shalloe, a hospital ward sister, in 1991, and they had three sons before separating in 2004 and divorcing in 2008. In June 2010, he married his second wife, journalist Celia Walden, the daughter of former Conservative MP George Walden, and they have a daughter together.
Morgan lives in Kensington, London, and owns additional properties in Newick, East Sussex, and Hollywood, Los Angeles. A staunch supporter of Arsenal FC, he has frequently criticized former manager Arsène Wenger, leading to notable public spats, including a refusal to shake hands from midfielder Aaron Ramsey.
Politically, Morgan has identified as a Conservative but has voted for various parties based on his views, including the Animal Welfare Party and Labour. In July 2021, he revealed he had contracted COVID-19 despite being fully vaccinated, experiencing severe symptoms. Of Irish Catholic descent, Morgan frequently discusses his Catholic faith and belief in an afterlife, although he admits he doesn’t regularly attend Confession.
Conclusion
Morgan has hosted several high-profile TV shows, including “Piers Morgan’s Life Stories” and “Good Morning Britain,” and won “The Celebrity Apprentice US” in 2008. His involvement in the phone hacking scandal and subsequent controversies have impacted his public image. Despite this, Morgan’s successful media career and ventures have contributed significantly to his net worth.
FAQs about Piers Morgan
- What sparked Piers Morgan’s interest in journalism? Morgan’s early career at local newspapers fueled his passion for journalism.
- How has Piers Morgan impacted television? His roles as a judge and host have brought a unique and often confrontational style to television.
- What are Piers Morgan’s most controversial moments? His tenure at the Daily Mirror and comments on various social issues stand out.
- What drives Piers Morgan’s public persona? His unapologetic and outspoken nature defines his media character.
- What future projects can we expect from Piers Morgan? Continuing with broadcasting and journalism, Morgan is likely to remain a prominent media figure.
