Boris Johnson, the English politician and former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is a figure of significant public interest. Known for his flamboyant personality and political acumen, Johnson's career spans journalism, politics, and public service. This article delves into the details of Johnson's net worth, income sources, career highlights, investments, and personal life, providing an in-depth look at his financial standing and contributions to society.
Quick Facts About Boris Johnson
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson |
| Date of Birth | June 19, 1964 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 60 years old |
| Occupation(s) | Politician, Journalist |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Turkish, English, Russian, Jewish) |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm) |
| Net Worth (2024) | $4 million |
| Source of Wealth | Politics, Journalism, Books |
| Parents | Stanley Johnson, Charlotte Fawcett |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Carrie Symonds |
| Children | 7 |
| Education | Eton College, Balliol College, Oxford |
| Known for | Prime Minister of the UK (2019-2022), Mayor of London (2008-2016) |
| Major Awards | None |
Early Life and Education
Boris Johnson was born on June 19, 1964, in New York City, to British parents Stanley Johnson and Charlotte Fawcett. His family has a diverse background with roots in Turkey, England, Russia, and Jewish heritage. Johnson's early education was at Eton College, one of the most prestigious schools in the UK, where he was a King's Scholar. He later attended Balliol College, Oxford, where he studied Classics and served as president of the Oxford Union, a prestigious debating society.
Rise in Journalism and Politics
Career Beginnings
Johnson's career began in journalism, where he made a name for himself as a writer and editor. He started at The Times but was dismissed for falsifying a quotation. He then joined The Daily Telegraph, where he worked as a European correspondent and later as an assistant editor. Johnson's witty and controversial articles gained him a significant following.
Political Ascent
In 2001, Johnson entered politics as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Henley. His charisma and public appeal helped him win the mayoral election in London in 2008, where he served two terms until 2016. As Mayor of London, Johnson introduced several initiatives, including the Barclays Cycle Hire scheme and banning alcohol on public transportation.
Prime Ministership
In 2019, after a series of political upheavals, Johnson became the leader of the Conservative Party and subsequently the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. His tenure was marked by the Brexit negotiations and the COVID-19 pandemic. Johnson led the UK through its departure from the European Union and implemented policies to handle the pandemic's impact on the nation.
Financial Standing: Net Worth and Income Sources
Net Worth Overview
As of 2024, Boris Johnson's net worth is estimated to be around $4 million. This wealth has been accumulated through various sources, including his political career, journalism, book deals, and speaking engagements.
Sources of Wealth
- Political Salary: As Prime Minister, Johnson earned an annual salary of approximately £161,401 (about $220,000). His roles as an MP and Mayor of London also contributed to his income.
- Journalism: Johnson's work in journalism, particularly with The Daily Telegraph, provided a substantial income. He reportedly earned £275,000 per year for his columns.
- Books: Johnson has authored several books, including works on political history and his biography of Winston Churchill, which have contributed significantly to his income.
- Public Speaking: Post-premiership, Johnson has engaged in public speaking, which is a lucrative source of income for many former politicians.
Assets and Investments
Johnson's assets include properties in London and Oxfordshire. His primary residence is a townhouse in London, valued at several million pounds. Additionally, he owns a country house in Oxfordshire, which adds to his asset portfolio. Johnson's investments are not publicly detailed, but it is likely that he has a diversified investment portfolio.
Net Worth Growth and Future Projections
Johnson's net worth has seen a steady increase over the years, particularly due to his high-profile roles and public engagements. His move from journalism to politics saw a significant rise in his earnings, and his tenure as Prime Minister added further to his financial standing. Future projections suggest that his net worth will continue to grow, especially from post-political career activities such as public speaking and book deals.
Personal Life and Public Perception
Relationships and Family
Boris Johnson's personal life has often been in the public eye. He married his first wife, Allegra Mostyn-Owen, in 1987, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1993. He then married Marina Wheeler, with whom he has four children. The couple separated in 2018. Johnson is currently married to Carrie Symonds, with whom he has two children.
Public Image
Johnson's public image is a mix of admiration and controversy. Known for his eccentric personality and sometimes controversial statements, he has a polarizing effect on the public. His handling of Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic has received both praise and criticism. Despite this, Johnson remains a significant figure in British politics and continues to influence public opinion.
Legacy and Impact
Boris Johnson's impact on British politics is substantial. His role in the Brexit movement and his leadership during a global pandemic are significant aspects of his legacy. Johnson's policies and political maneuvers have left a lasting imprint on the UK's political landscape. His contributions to journalism and literature also add to his multifaceted legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Boris Johnson's net worth in 2024?
Boris Johnson's net worth in 2024 is estimated to be around $4 million.
2. What were Boris Johnson's major contributions as Mayor of London?
As Mayor of London, Johnson introduced the Barclays Cycle Hire scheme and banned alcohol on public transportation.
3. How many children does Boris Johnson have?
Boris Johnson has seven children.
4. What books has Boris Johnson written?
Boris Johnson has authored several books, including "The Churchill Factor: How One Man Made History" and "Johnson's Life of London."
5. What are Boris Johnson's primary sources of income?
Johnson's primary sources of income include his political salary, journalism, book deals, and public speaking engagements.
Boris Johnson remains a prominent figure in contemporary politics, known for his significant contributions and charismatic persona. His financial standing, career achievements, and personal life continue to capture public interest, making him a fascinating subject of study and discussion.
