John McCririck wasn’t just a horse racing pundit—he was a household name, a cultural force, and a divisive figure in British entertainment. His flamboyant style, outspoken opinions, and larger-than-life personality made him a recognizable figure both on and off the racecourse. But behind the eccentric facade was a multifaceted career spanning journalism, broadcasting, and reality TV.
A question fans often ask is, “What was John McCririck’s financial legacy?” With his career highlights, controversies, and extravagant lifestyle, McCririck’s net worth offers intriguing insight into his unique life story.
Who Was John McCririck?
Early Life and Education
John Michael McCririck was born on April 17, 1940, in Surbiton, Surrey, to property-developing parents. He was educated at prestigious institutions such as Elizabeth College in Guernsey and Harrow School in London, where he was known for his rebelliousness.
Despite being a less-than-stellar student, he showed an entrepreneurial streak, running a betting book for cross-country races during his school years.
Career Beginnings
McCririck’s career began humbly—he was briefly a hotel waiter and later worked for an illegal bookmaker during the time off-course betting was prohibited in the UK. His first steps into journalism came at The Sporting Life, where he gained a reputation for his campaigning and scandal-revealing articles, twice earning British Press Awards. However, this role ended abruptly in 1984.
Eccentric Style
McCririck’s signature look made him instantly recognizable. His deerstalker hats, loud suits, and trademark tic-tac gestures in the betting ring became his calling card. The cigars he often smoked were the cherry on top of a personal style that was just as colorful as his personality.
John McCririck’s Career Highlights
From Journalism to TV Stardom
After starting at The Sporting Life, McCririck transitioned to television in the 1980s. He joined ITV Sport in 1981 and became the face of betting coverage when horse racing moved to Channel 4 in the mid-80s. His candid, no-holds-barred reporting style transformed horse racing into engaging television for a broader audience.
Reality TV and Entertainment Appearances
McCririck didn’t just limit himself to horse racing. He cemented his status as a TV personality by appearing on popular shows like Celebrity Big Brother, Wife Swap, and The Weakest Link. His controversial antics, often laced with his self-admitted male chauvinist views, captivated and polarized viewers. Reportedly, he earned upwards of $40,000 for his stint on Celebrity Big Brother.
Awards and Recognition
McCririck’s journalism wasn’t overshadowed by his TV career. He received several prestigious awards, including Specialist Writer of the Year (1978) and Campaigning Journalist of the Year (1979). Despite his flamboyant persona, his skills as a serious journalist often shone through.
John McCririck’s Net Worth and Earnings
Showbiz Paychecks
Though his exact net worth at the time of his death in 2019 is unclear, estimates suggest it ranged in the millions, bolstered by decades of television appearances and lucrative reality TV gigs. For instance, he once revealed that he spent £20,000 on a single Las Vegas trip—an indication of his large disposable income.
Property Investments
One of his savviest financial moves was purchasing a home in Primrose Hill, London, for £185,000 in the late 1980s. Today, the property is valued at over £1 million, significantly contributing to his overall wealth.
Extravagant Lifestyle
Known for his “spend, don’t save” mindset, McCririck indulged in luxuries such as £2,000 worth of cigars annually, tailored lamb coats adorned with bison imagery, and trips to Las Vegas.
Challenges and Controversies
Employment Setbacks
McCririck’s career faced major hurdles in later years. After he was dropped from Channel 4’s racing coverage in 2012, McCririck blamed ageism and filed a £3 million age discrimination lawsuit. However, the tribunal ruled against him, stating that his “pantomime persona” alienated wider audiences.
Health Struggles
2018 saw McCririck battling influenza and a subsequent chest infection, leading to significant weight loss and declining health. He was later diagnosed with lung cancer, which contributed to his death in July 2019 at the age of 79.
What Legacy Did John McCririck Leave Behind?
Contributions to Horse Racing
McCririck’s impact on horse racing and sports broadcasting cannot be overstated. He brought the betting side of horse racing into mainstream conversation, offering viewers an insider’s perspective on the sport.
Personal and Public Image
While often perceived as brash and misogynistic, those close to McCririck described him as kind-hearted and generous. His enduring marriage to his wife, Jenny (the “Booby”), exemplified another side to his character.
Cultural Impact
McCririck’s bold persona left an indelible mark on British television. Though polarizing, he will be remembered as a trailblazer who blended journalism with entertainment in ways few others could.
Final Thoughts
John McCririck’s life was as colorful and unpredictable as the horse races he loved to report on. Despite controversies, his ability to connect with audiences and bring a niche sport into the limelight remains a testament to his influence.
His extravagant lifestyle, iconic persona, and groundbreaking contributions have secured his place in the annals of British television and horse racing history.
FAQs
What did John McCririck call his wife?
He affectionately referred to his wife, Jenny, as “The Booby,” inspired by a South American bird known for its noisy and amusing nature.
Where is John McCririck buried?
John McCririck was cremated following his passing in 2019; details on burial or memorial have not been publicly disclosed.
Did John McCririck have children?
No, John McCririck and his wife, Jenny, did not have children during their 48 years of marriage.
