The Real Reason James Corden is Leaving The Late Late Show (No, He Wasn't Fired)
It was his decision to step away after 8 years as host – here's why.
Just over a year ago, James Corden shocked fans of The Late Late Show when he announced he was entering his last year as host. Execs tried to tempt him into signing a long-term deal to continue, but the comedy actor-turned-presenter was only prepared to commit to 12 more months.
His last show will be broadcast on April 27 2023, after which he will turn his attention to matters closer to home.
When he shot to fame playing Smithy on the UK comedy Gavin & Stacey in the late noughties, Corden couldn't have dreamed that he'd end up hosting one of the most popular shows on US TV for 8 years.
And yet here we are in 2023, waiting for the final instalment of Carpool Karaoke – this time featuring Adele. Over the years, of course, James Corden has persuaded some of the most famous faces in the world to join him for a sing-along in his car – including Mariah Carey, Will Smith and Stevie Wonder.
He even managed to interview Prince Harry on a bus.
Now, though, he and his wife Jules have decided it's time to call it a day. According to The Sun, a source close to the couple said they have had, 'barely any time to see their families in the UK over the past few years due to his work schedule'.
In his final Carpool Karaoke, Corden spoke candidly to Adele – who he is close friends with – telling her that 'with people getting older, people we love- it's time to go home'.
The singer was equally open as she spoke about how supportive the Corden family had been to her after she divorced in 2021.
Corden is on record as saying the things he'll miss most about the show are 'my friends' and 'coming into this office every day and knowing that someone's gonna make me laugh'.
He hasn't yet announced what comes next, but as a writer, producer, chat show host and actor with film, TV and stage credits to his name, the creative world appears to be his oyster right now.
Although, talking on The Drew Barrymore Show, James Corden gave a heartfelt and moving explanation of how he realised two summers ago that his busy schedule and limited time with his young son were incompatible and leaving the show 'became an easy decision'. So, maybe before he gets on with any more projects, he'll just take a bit of time out to spend with his family.
Source: The Sun, The Drew Barrymore Show.