Bernard Cornwell net worth has been built through a long and successful career as an author of historical novels, including the iconic Sharpe series and The Last Kingdom.
Beyond his popular books, Cornwell has benefited financially from TV adaptations and various media ventures.
In this article, PBC will break down his wealth sources, career milestones, and overall financial picture, with a special focus on the impact of his writing and television projects on his finances.
Bernard Cornwell Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Bernard Cornwell |
| Popular Name | Bernard Cornwell |
| Birth Date | February 23, 1944 |
| Age | 80 (as of 02/13/2025) |
| Birthplace | London, England |
| Nationality | English |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | University of London |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Judy Cornwell (m. 1980) |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | Married to Judy Cornwell |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | William Oughtred, Dorothy Rose Cornwell |
| Height | N/A |
| Net Worth | $5 million (as of 2025) |
| Source of Wealth | Writing, royalties from books and TV adaptations |
What is the Net Worth of Bernard Cornwell in 2025?
Bernard Cornwell’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $5 million (based on data from Celebrity Net Worth).
The majority of his wealth comes from the success of his historical fiction novels, with additional income from TV adaptations of his works, such as Sharpe and The Last Kingdom.
In comparison to other famous authors like C.S. Forester, whose work inspired Cornwell’s, Bernard’s financial standing places him among successful contemporary novelists.
His extensive writing career and adaptations have granted him a steady flow of income, making him one of the more notable figures in the literary world.
Here are some notable individuals related to Bernard Cornwell’s career:
- C.S. Forester
- Sean Bean
- The Last Kingdom (TV series)
- ITV (Sharpe TV series)
- Thames Television
For more insights into other famous individuals, check out our richest celebrities section.
Bernard Cornwell Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
What Are the Primary Sources of Bernard Cornwell’s Wealth?
Bernard Cornwell’s wealth primarily stems from his extensive career in writing and the television adaptations of his books.
Cornwell is best known for his Sharpe series, which follows the adventures of Richard Sharpe during the Napoleonic Wars.
The series’ success led to multiple TV adaptations, starring Sean Bean, further boosting Cornwell’s income.
Another significant source of wealth for Bernard is The Last Kingdom, which has been adapted into a popular TV show. Cornwell’s writing not only brings in royalties from book sales but also from media licensing and TV rights.
How Does Bernard Cornwell Earn from His Writing Career?
As a prolific author, Cornwell’s books are sold worldwide, with his Sharpe and Saxon Stories series being the primary contributors to his income.
The number of books published, alongside the ongoing royalties from these works, ensures a constant cash flow. Cornwell also benefits from advancements and licensing deals from publishing houses.
His career as a writer has earned him a reputation for creating engaging, historically rich narratives, which has kept his books in high demand for decades.
How Have Television Adaptations Impacted Bernard Cornwell’s Earnings?
The television adaptations of his books have provided a significant financial boost. Sharpe became an iconic television series, earning revenue through syndication and DVD sales.
More recently, The Last Kingdom was successfully adapted into a popular series by Netflix, which further expanded Cornwell’s audience and financial reach.
TV adaptations are lucrative for authors, and Bernard Cornwell has benefited from both upfront payments for rights as well as ongoing royalties.
His Financial Success Beyond Books and TV
Beyond writing and television, Bernard Cornwell’s career includes a role in the BBC and Thames Television.
His work as an editor and producer helped elevate his career, and this part of his life contributed to his financial growth as well.
While not as prominent as his writing career, his television work helped build a steady stream of income and further establish his name in the entertainment industry.
Career Legacy and Its Influence on His Wealth
Bernard Cornwell’s career legacy, with its emphasis on historical storytelling, continues to impact his financial standing.
His work not only stands out for its entertainment value but also for its historical accuracy, which has garnered a dedicated fan base.
As his books and TV adaptations continue to attract audiences, his financial success is likely to grow.
The fact that his characters, such as Richard Sharpe and Uhtred of Bebbanburg, have become cultural icons further solidifies Cornwell’s wealth and status as a successful author.
Conclusion
As Bernard Cornwell continues to write and expand his legacy, his wealth will likely see steady growth.
His work in historical fiction, especially through Sharpe and The Last Kingdom, has earned him a considerable fortune.
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