James Bolam: A Comprehensive Biography

James Christopher Bolam was born on 16 June 1935 in Sunderland, County Durham, England. His parents were Robert Alfred Bolam and Marion Alice Drury. He spent part of his schooling at Bede Grammar School in Sunderland and later attended Bemrose School in Derby.

Originally, Bolam trained to be a chartered accountant and worked as an articled clerk, but he soon shifted paths to pursue acting. He studied at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London, where he won both the gold medal and the Margaret Rawlings Cup. To support himself during his studies, he worked night shifts in restaurants and tearooms.

Age, Birthday, and Honors

• Birthday: 16 June 1935

• Current Age (as of 2025): 90 years

• Honor: In 2009, he was appointed MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to drama.

Career: Movies, TV Shows, and Legacy

James Bolam has had a long and distinguished acting career, especially in British television, though he also has substantial film credits.

Notable TV Roles

• Terry Collier in The Likely Lads and its sequel Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?

• Jack Ford in When the Boat Comes In, a period drama set in early-20th-century England.

• Roy Figgis in Only When I Laugh, a sitcom set in a hospital.

• Trevor Chaplin in The Beiderbecke Trilogy, showcasing his flair for both comedy and warm character work.

• Arthur Gilder in Born and Bred, a gentle medical drama set in the 1950s.

• Jack Halford in New Tricks, a crime-drama series.

• Grandpa in Grandpa in My Pocket, a children’s show where he played the title role.

• He also portrayed Harold Shipman, the infamous serial killer, in the drama Harold Shipman: Doctor Death.

Film Roles

Some of his notable films include:

• A Kind of Loving (1962)

• The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner (1962)

• Half a Sixpence (1967)

• Otley (1969)

• O Lucky Man! (1973)

• In Celebration (1975)

• The Plague Dogs (1982)

• Clockwork Mice (1995)

• The End of the Affair (1999)

• To Kill a King (2003)

Recognition & Impact

Bolam has been recognized for his contributions to British television and stage. He received nominations for the BAFTA Television Award for Best Actor and was nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award for his stage work. His portrayals are praised for their authenticity, particularly in working-class roles. Despite his fame, he is extremely private and rarely participates in publicity interviews.

Personal Life: Wife, Family, and Children

Wife

James Bolam has been married to actress Susan Jameson since 1971. Susan Jameson is known for a variety of television roles, including appearances in period dramas, crime series, and stage performances.

Children

The couple has one daughter, Lucy Bolam, who has largely stayed out of the public eye. Lucy was born in the mid-1970s and has maintained a private life, avoiding the spotlight despite her parents’ celebrity status.

Family Life & Personality

James and Susan divide their time between West Sussex and Chiswick, London. Bolam is known for his guarded personal life and modest lifestyle. He enjoys golf and is a member of the Stage Golfing Society. Additionally, he has been active in local community issues, including environmental campaigns in his area.

Health and Illness

In his later years, Bolam faced a serious health challenge: collapsed vertebrae. He underwent a procedure called vertebroplasty, where a special paste is injected to stabilize the affected bones. While the treatment helped reduce pain and improve mobility, he experienced another collapsed vertebra later, which impacted his day-to-day movement. Despite these challenges, he has maintained dignity and privacy regarding his health.

Net Worth

Estimates of James Bolam’s net worth vary, but he is generally believed to have amassed a fortune in the low millions through his long-standing career in television, film, and stage. His wealth also reflects steady earnings from long-running roles, royalties, and investments.

Legacy and Influence

James Bolam’s legacy is significant in British entertainment. His portrayals often reflect working-class authenticity, and his long career demonstrates the breadth of his talent across comedy, drama, and children’s television. He remains a respected figure, admired for his dedication, authenticity, and private, grounded lifestyle.

Bolam’s influence is also seen in his ability to remain relevant in acting for decades, balancing a successful professional life with a commitment to privacy and personal integrity.

In conclusion, James Bolam is not only a veteran actor but also a symbol of subtle strength, authenticity, and dedication. From his early life in Sunderland to his acclaimed performances on British television, he continues to inspire with his talent and character.

This biography is presented by Megacine.