James Bolam: Where Is He Now? Age, Wife, Net Worth & Feud

For generations of British TV viewers, the name James Bolam brings back a flood of memories—Terry Collier squabbling with Bob Ferris, the gruff but lovable Jack Halford in New Tricks. Now 89, the actor has largely stepped away from the spotlight, but curiosity about his life, his long marriage to Susan Jameson, and the famous feud with Rodney Bewes hasn’t faded.

Born: 16 June 1935 ·
Spouse: Susan Jameson (married 1971) ·
Known For: The Likely Lads, New Tricks ·
Age (2024): 89

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts

Born 16 June 1935 in Sunderland, England (Wikipedia (the free encyclopedia))
Married to actress Susan Jameson since 1971 (Wikipedia (biographical entry))
Starred in The Likely Lads (1964–1966) and Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads? (1973–1974) (British Comedy Guide (specialist comedy archive))
Played Jack Halford in New Tricks (2003–2014) (BBC Press Office (official broadcaster statement))

2What’s unclear

Exact net worth (not publicly disclosed)
Precise reason for leaving New Tricks – described as “creative differences”
Current specific residence (though he lives in West Sussex)

3Timeline signal

1935 – Born in Sunderland
1971 – Married Susan Jameson
2003–2014 – New Tricks run
2017 – Attended Rodney Bewes’ funeral

4What’s next

Largely retired from acting; no announced projects
Lives quietly with wife in West Sussex

Six key facts, one pattern: James Bolam built a six-decade career on two iconic roles, yet his private life stays remarkably shielded.

Label	Value
Full Name	James Christopher Bolam
Born	16 June 1935, Sunderland, England
Spouse	Susan Jameson (m. 1971)
Children	1 daughter
Known For	The Likely Lads, New Tricks
Age (2024)	89

Where Is James Bolam Now?

Is James Bolam still alive?

Yes. As of 2024, James Bolam is alive and well. He lives in the UK, though his exact location is not publicly advertised. The BBC Press Office noted in 2005 that he and his wife Susan Jameson lived in a farmhouse in West Sussex (BBC Press Office (official broadcaster statement)). Multiple sources confirm that he has been largely retired from acting for the past several years.