Jermaine Anthony Jenas, born on February 18, 1983, in Nottingham, England, is a former professional footballer who transitioned into a successful career as a television presenter and football pundit. Throughout his football career, he played as a central midfielder for several prominent English clubs and earned caps for the England national team. After retiring from professional football, Jenas became a well-known figure in sports broadcasting and television presenting.
Early Life and Education
Jenas was born to a white mother and a British-Jamaican father, Dennis, who had changed his surname from Genas to Jenas by deed poll to have the initials “D. J.” Dennis played semi-professionally with Leicestershire-based non-league side Shepshed Charterhouse in the 1980s. Growing up on a council estate in Nottingham, Jenas attended the Catholic Becket School in West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire. He has spoken about experiencing racism during his upbringing, directed not only at himself but also at his mother due to his father’s heritage.
Personal Life and Family
Jenas and his wife, Ellie, have two daughters together, and he has another daughter from a previous relationship who resides in the United States with her mother. On October 8, 2021, Jenas announced the birth of his son. As of 2014, the family lived in Hertfordshire. Beyond his professional endeavors, Jenas enjoys cooking and has been involved in charitable activities. He co-founded the Aquinas Foundation, which offers football tickets to truant students at disadvantaged schools in Nottingham and London as an incentive for achieving 100% attendance.
In October 2022, Jenas faced legal issues when he was fined £2,070 and received a six-month driving ban for speeding and using his mobile phone while driving on the M25 motorway in Hertfordshire. In August 2024, he was dismissed by the BBC following complaints of inappropriate messages sent to colleagues. Jenas has publicly acknowledged his mistakes, expressing remorse and a commitment to personal growth.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jermaine Anthony Jenas |
| Date of Birth | February 18, 1983 |
| Place of Birth | Nottingham, England |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) |
| Parents | Dennis Genas (father); mother’s name not publicly available |
| Position | Midfielder |
| Youth Career | Nottingham Forest (1999–2001) |
| Senior Career | Nottingham Forest (2001–2002), Newcastle United (2002–2005), Tottenham Hotspur (2005–2013), Aston Villa (loan, 2011), Nottingham Forest (loan, 2012–2013), Queens Park Rangers (2013–2014) |
| International Career | England U16, U17, U18, U19, U21, B, and senior team (2003–2009) |
| Net Worth (as of 2025) | Estimated at £2 million |
Football Career
Nottingham Forest
Jenas began his professional career at Nottingham Forest, making his debut at 17 on January 7, 2001, in an FA Cup match against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
He quickly became a regular starter, scoring his first senior goal on August 18, 2001, in a 2–1 defeat at Barnsley. His promising performances attracted attention from Premier League clubs, leading to his transfer to Newcastle United for £5 million in February 2002.
Newcastle United
At Newcastle, Jenas continued to develop his reputation as a talented midfielder. In his first full season (2002–03), he was honored with the PFA Young Player of the Year award. Over three seasons, he made 152 appearances and scored 12 goals for the club. Despite his early promise, his form fluctuated, leading to a transfer to Tottenham Hotspur in August 2005 for £7 million.
Tottenham Hotspur
Jenas’s tenure at Tottenham was marked by both achievements and challenges. He was part of the squad that won the Football League Cup in the 2007–08 season. However, injuries began to impede his progress, leading to loan spells at Aston Villa in 2011 and a return to Nottingham Forest in 2012. In January 2013, he signed with Queens Park Rangers (QPR), where he played until a severe injury in April 2014 led to his retirement from professional football.
International Career
Jenas represented England at various youth levels before earning his senior debut on February 12, 2003, against Australia. He was part of the squad for the 2006 FIFA World Cup but did not make an appearance during the tournament. His sole international goal came in a friendly against Switzerland on February 6, 2008. In total, he earned 21 caps for the national team.
Post-Playing Career
After retiring, Jenas transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a football pundit for ITV Sport’s coverage of the UEFA Europa League in 2014. He later joined BT Sport and contributed to BBC’s Match of the Day. In 2020, he began co-presenting The One Show on BBC One. However, in August 2024, he was dismissed by the BBC due to inappropriate behavior. Following a period of reflection and personal development, Jenas returned to broadcasting with talkSPORT in February 2025, co-commentating on an FA Cup match between Aston Villa and Tottenham.
Jermaine Jenas’s journey from a promising footballer to a recognized television presenter highlights his versatility and resilience. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, he has demonstrated a commitment to growth and a passion for both football and media.
Years |
Club/Team |
Appearances |
Goals |
Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999–2001 | Nottingham Forest (Youth) | – | – | Youth Player |
| 2001–2002 | Nottingham Forest | 31 | 4 | Midfielder |
| 2002–2005 | Newcastle United | 152 | 12 | Midfielder |
| 2005–2013 | Tottenham Hotspur | 155 | 21 | Midfielder |
| 2011 | Aston Villa (Loan) | 3 | 0 | Midfielder |
| 2012–2013 | Nottingham Forest (Loan) | 6 | 1 | Midfielder |
| 2013–2014 | Queens Park Rangers | 38 | 4 | Midfielder |
| 2003–2009 | England National Team | 21 | 1 | Midfielder |
| 2014-Present | TV Presenter & Pundit | – | – | Broadcaster |
Latest News
As of February 7, 2025, Jermaine Jenas is preparing to return to sports broadcasting with talkSPORT after a six-month hiatus following his dismissal from the BBC due to inappropriate behavior. He has publicly acknowledged his mistakes, expressing remorse and a commitment to personal growth. Jenas is set to co-commentate on the upcoming FA Cup match between Aston Villa and Tottenham, marking his return to sports broadcasting.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Username/Handle | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @jjenas8 | https://twitter.com/jjenas8 | |
| @jjenas | https://www.instagram.com/jjenas/ |
Height and Physical Appearance
Standing at 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 meters), Jermaine Jenas has maintained an athletic build, a testament to his years as a professional athlete. His presence is often noted for his composed demeanor and professional attire, reflecting his transition from the football pitch to the television studio.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Jermaine Jenas’s net worth is estimated to be around £2 million. This valuation accounts for his earnings from his football career, broadcasting roles, and various endorsements. His recent return to sports commentary is anticipated to contribute positively to his financial standing.
Jermaine Jenas’s journey from a professional footballer to a recognized television presenter underscores his versatility and resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges.
FAQs
Why did Jermaine Jenas stop playing football?
Jermaine Jenas retired in 2014 due to a severe knee injury while playing for QPR.
How much is Jermaine Jenas worth?
As of 2025, Jermaine Jenas’s estimated net worth is around £2 million.
What does Jermaine Jenas do now?
Jenas is a football pundit and TV presenter, recently returning to talkSPORT after leaving the BBC.
