Joe Gilgun isn’t your stereotypical TV star. He’s raw, gritty, and full of heart—and he’s built a loyal fanbase because of it. Whether he’s playing the troubled but lovable Vinnie in Brassic, the misfit Rudy in Misfits, or a young Woody in This Is England, there’s something undeniably real about Joe.
But behind the tattoos, humour, and deeply emotional roles, one question keeps popping up: How much has Joe Gilgun actually earned from his career? Let’s take a deep dive into his journey, earnings, and estimated net worth.
Joe Gilgun’s Rise in the Industry
Joe’s acting roots go all the way back to childhood, when he landed a role on Coronation Street. But it wasn’t until Emmerdale that he became a household name in British soaps. Even then, Joe never felt quite at home in the polished world of daytime TV.
His breakout came with This Is England, where his performance as Woody struck a chord with viewers. Then came Misfits, where his chaotic energy was a perfect fit. But it was Brassic—which he co-created—that really let Joe shine on his own terms. It’s not just a show; it’s a reflection of his life, humour, and battles with mental health.
Joe Gilgun Net Worth
Let’s answer the big question: Joe Gilgun’s estimated net worth as of 2025 ranges between £1.5 million and £3 million. This isn’t just from acting—Joe wears many hats. He’s a writer, a co-creator, and a producer.
Much of his recent wealth has come from Brassic, which is now one of Sky’s biggest original series. With each season, his stake in the project grows—meaning long-term income from streaming, syndication, and future rights. And while Joe isn’t flashy, his earnings reflect steady, meaningful work over time.
Breaking Down the Income Streams
1. Television & Streaming Success
TV has been the backbone of Joe’s career. From long stints on Emmerdale to the cult followings of Misfits and This Is England, his performances have always stood out. But Brassic changed the game.
As the show’s co-creator, writer, and lead actor, Joe is earning far more than a typical acting fee. He likely takes home royalties, writing income, and potential backend deals—especially as Brassic continues to expand internationally on platforms like Now TV and Sky Go.
2. Film Roles
Joe’s film work might not be blockbuster material, but it’s solid. Films like Lockout, The Infiltrator, and Pride added to his portfolio and income. While film roles aren’t his main focus, they provide both creative expression and a reliable secondary income stream.
Each project, big or small, contributes to a layered and respected career—and with that, his overall net worth.
3. Writing & Producing Credits
Here’s where Joe really sets himself apart. Brassic isn’t just something he stars in—it’s a story he helped build from scratch. That means more control, more input, and a bigger financial piece of the pie.
Involvement in writing and producing adds serious value. Instead of getting paid once for acting, Joe likely earns from multiple roles behind the scenes. That’s a smart move that ensures income even if he takes a step back from acting someday.
4. Appearances, Events & Possible Endorsements
Joe isn’t the type to show up at every red carpet or sign endorsement deals with every brand, but he does make select appearances. Whether it’s a TV panel, a podcast interview, or a fan Q&A, these appearances contribute to his income.
And while you won’t catch him on a cereal box anytime soon, he might collaborate with niche brands that align with his personality—think indie clothing lines or creative mental health projects.
Personality, Privacy & Staying Grounded
What’s refreshing about Joe Gilgun is how grounded he is. He’s been open about his struggles with bipolar disorder and ADHD, and he doesn’t pretend to be someone he’s not. That honesty resonates deeply with fans and gives his work extra authenticity.
Despite his success, Joe lives a relatively modest life. He’s not in the tabloids flaunting sports cars or exotic holidays. His wealth doesn’t define him—and that’s part of why fans love him even more.
Comparing Gilgun’s Net Worth to His Peers
Compared to mainstream celebrities, Joe’s net worth might seem modest. But in the world of British TV and indie film, he’s doing quite well—especially for someone who writes, acts, and produces.
He’s likely earning more than co-stars who are just actors on Brassic, thanks to his multiple roles. And while someone like Michelle Keegan might bring in more from outside endorsements, Joe’s deep involvement in the creative process gives him longevity and influence.
What Could Grow His Net Worth in the Future?
Joe’s not done yet—not by a long shot. With Brassic still going strong, he’s already built a steady income stream. But future spin-offs, film adaptations, or international deals could significantly increase his earnings.
There’s also potential in writing a memoir, launching a podcast, or even directing. His perspective on mental health and the creative process could reach audiences beyond TV—and bring in new revenue streams.
Final Thoughts
Joe Gilgun isn’t trying to be a celebrity—he’s trying to be real. His net worth, estimated between £1.5 and £3 million, reflects not just acting talent, but creative ambition and emotional honesty. He’s one of the rare few who manage to blend entertainment with meaning.
Whether you’re a fan of Brassic, Misfits, or just admire someone who’s authentic in a world full of filters, Joe’s story proves that staying true to yourself can be both powerful—and profitable.
FAQs
Are Vicky McClure and Joe Gilgun still friends?
Yes, they’ve stayed close since This Is England. Both speak highly of each other and have occasionally reunited for industry events and fan interactions.
Are Joe Gilgun’s tattoos in Brassic real?
Some are real, some are makeup. Joe has a number of personal tattoos, but a few visible in Brassic are applied specifically for his character Vinnie.
Has Joe Gilgun got ADHD?
Yes. Joe has been vocal about living with ADHD and bipolar disorder. He’s used his personal experiences to shape characters and storylines, especially in Brassic.
Why did Joe Gilgun leave Emmerdale?
Joe left Emmerdale to pursue other creative roles. He’s said in interviews that while he enjoyed the experience, he wanted more freedom to explore characters that felt closer to his own personality.
