For over 30 years, Anthony McPartlin and Declan Donnelly—better known as Ant & Dec—have been the cheeky, dependable faces of British television. From their teenage acting days on Byker Grove to hosting some of the UK’s most-watched prime-time shows, they’ve become almost impossible to avoid on TV. But while their charm and humor have won hearts, their bank accounts tell another impressive story. Today, Ant and Dec are not just TV legends—they are also some of the richest entertainers in the country.
So, how did two lads from Newcastle turn their friendship into a fortune of over £120 million? Let’s dive into their journey, their earnings, and what makes them financial powerhouses in the entertainment world.
How Much Are Ant and Dec Worth?
Recent estimates suggest that Ant and Dec each have a net worth of around £62 million, which adds up to roughly £124 million combined. That’s not just from presenting TV shows—it’s from a smart combination of contracts, investments, production companies, and real estate.
Their long-standing appeal ensures a steady income stream, which is unusual in an industry where popularity can be fleeting. Reports from 2024 confirmed their fortunes have remained stable, with ITV contracts alone contributing tens of millions. In fact, their latest deal with the network is rumoured to be worth around £40 million over three years, potentially rising to £50 million if extended. This deal covers major shows like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, Britain’s Got Talent, and Saturday Night Takeaway.
It’s not just TV fees that make them rich. Over the years, they’ve invested wisely and built businesses that generate passive income, showing that their financial success isn’t accidental—it’s calculated.
From Byker Grove to Household Names
Ant and Dec’s rise wasn’t overnight. They first met as teenagers on the BBC teen drama Byker Grove, where they played PJ and Duncan. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, and they quickly became friends off-screen too.
After leaving Byker Grove, the pair tried their hand at music. Under the names PJ and Duncan, they released several singles, including the now-iconic “Let’s Get Ready to Rhumble.” While their pop career was short-lived, it helped them build a fan base and cement their partnership in the public eye. Fun fact: when they performed that same single years later on Saturday Night Takeaway, it shot back to the top of the charts!
By the late 1990s, they had shifted to children’s television, hosting shows like SMTV Live and CD:UK. These programs honed their presenting skills and introduced them to a new generation of fans. Their transition to prime-time TV in the early 2000s was the real game-changer. Hosting shows such as Pop Idol, I’m a Celebrity…, and eventually Britain’s Got Talent, Ant and Dec became the faces of ITV entertainment.
The “Golden Handcuff” Deals That Secured Their Fortune
One key reason for their massive net worth is their exclusive deals with ITV, often referred to as “golden handcuffs.” These contracts ensure they stay with the network while commanding huge salaries. Back in 2007, they signed a deal worth £30–40 million, followed by another £30 million contract in 2016. Their latest agreement reportedly reaches £40 million, with potential to rise to £50 million.
These contracts guarantee that Ant and Dec aren’t just paid for appearing on shows—they get the security of multi-year deals, which is rare in entertainment. It’s like having a safety net that allows them to focus on doing what they do best: entertaining the nation.
Ant and Dec’s Business Ventures
Beyond presenting, both Ant and Dec are savvy businessmen. Dec’s company, Deecourt, reportedly holds over £35 million in cash and investments, while Hurley Promotions, jointly owned with Ant, adds another £2.7 million to their portfolio. These companies allow them to manage earnings from TV, endorsements, and other ventures efficiently.
Their strategy is simple but effective: don’t rely on just one income stream. By combining presenting, production, and investments, they’ve created multiple avenues for wealth. They’ve even dabbled in endorsements, from supermarket campaigns to bank commercials, which further pad their wallets.
A Lifestyle That Balances Luxury with Grounded Living
Despite their impressive fortunes, Ant and Dec aren’t the type to flaunt their wealth. They live comfortably in London—Ant in Wimbledon and Dec in Chiswick—yet they still maintain properties in the North East. Real estate has become a big part of their wealth strategy, allowing them to invest for the future without drawing too much attention.
Their grounded image is part of their brand. They’re funny, relatable, and never appear out of touch with everyday viewers. This balance of success and relatability likely contributes to their long-term popularity. Plus, they’re dedicated to charity, supporting causes like the Sunshine Fund and ChildLine, showing that their wealth also comes with a sense of responsibility.
Awards and Legacy
Ant and Dec’s legacy isn’t just financial—it’s also historical in British TV. They’ve won the National Television Award for Best Presenter an incredible 23 years in a row, a Guinness World Record. Their longevity is a testament to their consistency, professionalism, and natural chemistry.
Few presenters manage to stay relevant for decades. Most come and go, but Ant and Dec have mastered the art of connecting with audiences across generations. From teenagers who watched them on Byker Grove to adults tuning into Britain’s Got Talent, their appeal is truly cross-generational.
Net Worth Timeline – From Teen Stars to Millionaires
Early 1990s – Byker Grove Beginnings
Their journey started modestly, with teenage acting salaries just enough to get by. Yet, these early days built a foundation for their lifelong partnership.
Mid-1990s – PJ & Duncan Pop Duo
Their music career brought fame and modest royalties. “Let’s Get Ready to Rhumble” became a cultural touchstone, even if it wasn’t their biggest earner.
Late 1990s – Children’s TV Stars
Hosting SMTV Live and CD:UK brought better pay and growing popularity. They were now household names for a younger audience.
Early 2000s – Prime-Time Breakthrough
With shows like Pop Idol and I’m a Celebrity…, they started earning substantial fees, moving their careers into the millions.
Mid-2000s – Golden Handcuff Deal
The 2007 ITV contract worth £30–40 million marked their first massive financial milestone.
2010s – Production and Expansion
Founding Mitre Television and securing another £30 million deal in 2016 added further layers to their fortune.
2020s – Peak Earnings
With a £40–50 million ITV contract, company holdings, and other ventures, each now sits at around £62 million.
Who Is Richer: Ant or Dec?
Despite rumors and public curiosity, their net worth is remarkably similar. Both reportedly sit at around £62 million each. While Ant might have slightly different property investments, and Dec’s company holdings are impressive, the difference is minimal. What’s clear is that their partnership isn’t just professional—it’s financial. They’ve built their fortunes together, and that collaboration seems to be part of the magic.
Final Thoughts
Ant and Dec are more than just TV presenters—they’re a brand, a partnership, and a masterclass in career longevity. Their net worth isn’t just a number; it’s the result of decades of careful planning, smart deals, and staying true to who they are.
From Byker Grove to prime-time dominance, they’ve proven that consistency, chemistry, and a bit of cheeky humor can turn two teenage actors into millionaires many times over. And while money isn’t everything, in their case, it’s a reflection of talent, hard work, and smart choices—a combination that few in showbiz manage to achieve.
