Celebrities IQ

What Is Jimmy Savile's IQ?

By Samantha Davis
Psychology Writer
Published on November 17, 2024 | Updated on November 24, 2024

Image by Jmb, used under CC BY 2.5

Jimmy Savile's IQ Is 150

Jimmy Savile, a name that once symbolized eccentric charm and unyielding philanthropy, now stands for one of the darkest chapters in British history. Behind the garish tracksuits, gaudy jewelry, and broad smiles lay a complex figure of contradictions. His IQ of 150 placed him among the intellectual elite, qualifying him for Mensa, the society of the highly gifted. But how did a man with such cognitive brilliance build and maintain a double life that fooled a nation?

Savile’s intelligence, like his personality, was multifaceted. Some saw it as the driving force behind his ability to manipulate and persuade; others viewed it as a tool misused to conceal his true self. This high IQ played a pivotal role in shaping the man who would rise to fame – and infamy.

The calculating brilliance of Savile’s persona

Savile’s intelligence was evident in his ability to craft and switch personas with ease. Former colleague Mike Mackenzie, who worked alongside Savile at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, described him as two distinct people. In public, he was the flamboyant showman, larger than life and outrageously eccentric. In private, he transformed into a serious, sharp businessman, capable of making strategic decisions without writing anything down. His remarkable memory became one of his most talked-about traits.

This ability to shapeshift extended to his professional dealings. Savile’s use of money as a power tool demonstrated his mastery of manipulation. Mackenzie recounted how Savile controlled hospital funding, using it as leverage to sway management decisions. To those around him, this control was just another example of his “very calculating mind.” It was a strategy born of intelligence, one that kept him in a position of power for decades.
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Despite these glimpses of brilliance, Savile’s actions were veiled in secrecy. Even those who worked closely with him described him as enigmatic. Louis Theroux, who filmed a documentary on Savile in 2000, recalled how the DJ’s charisma could make him both likable and impenetrable. Savile’s ability to hide in plain sight, dropping unsettling hints under the guise of humor, added to his mystique.

A high IQ, a low moral compass

Savile’s intellectual aptitude did not translate into ethical behavior. Instead, it seemed to amplify his capacity for deception. His IQ of 150, which he often mentioned with pride, allowed him to navigate the world of celebrity with precision. It gave him the tools to outthink others, whether charming royalty or gaining influence in the healthcare sector. Savile once quipped that he had “never been nicked and never altered,” a chilling testament to his calculated ability to evade consequences.

His membership in Mensa became another point of pride. To outsiders, it was proof of his brilliance. To critics, it was emblematic of how intelligence, when divorced from empathy, could be weaponized. While Mensa members such as Sir Clive Sinclair and Geena Davis used their intelligence for invention and advocacy, Savile’s intellectual gifts were harnessed for manipulation.

The fine line between genius and deceit

Savile’s story highlights the dual-edged nature of intelligence. Those who knew him describe a man capable of extraordinary feats of memory and persuasion, yet fundamentally lacking a moral compass. His IQ, a measure of cognitive ability, could not measure the depth of his character – or lack thereof.

Savile’s ability to play multiple roles and navigate complex social networks reflects a mind of exceptional acuity. But it also underscores a troubling truth: intelligence alone does not guarantee integrity. For every move Savile made to build his public image, there was an equally calculated action taken to obscure his crimes.

In the end, Jimmy Savile’s high IQ is both a footnote and a central theme in his life. It enabled his rise to fame and provided him with the tools to exploit trust. But his story is a cautionary tale about how intelligence, when wielded without ethics, can become a dangerous force.

Jimmy Savile's IQ
150
profile picture of Jimmy Savile
What Evidence Supports Jimmy Savile's IQ of 150?
High Confidence

Average Confidence Level

High

Jimmy Savile's IQ was confirmed by multiple high-confidence sources, including The Independent, The Times, and The Guardian.

The Independent
150 IQ High Confidence Confidence Level: High
The Times
150 IQ High Confidence Confidence Level: High
The Guardian
150 IQ High Confidence Confidence Level: High

5 Life Achievements That Show How Smart Jimmy Savile Is

  • Member of Mensa: Jimmy Savile was a member of Mensa, the high IQ society, which requires an IQ of at least 130 to join.
  • TV Personality: Savile was a well-known TV personality, famous for his work on shows like "Jim'll Fix It" and "Top of the Pops".
  • Philanthropist: He was known for his extensive charitable work, raising millions for various causes.
  • Controversial Figure: Despite his public persona, Savile was later revealed to have committed numerous criminal acts, tarnishing his legacy.
  • Early Life: Savile was born in Leeds and worked as a DJ before rising to fame on television.
Image by Villains History Versos Galery Wiki, used under CC-BY-SA
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How high is Jimmy Savile's IQ Compared to the Rest of the World?

Jimmy Savile’s IQ score of 150 put him in a league of intellectuals that fewer than 0.04% of people ever achieve. This high score earned him a spot in Mensa, the prestigious high-IQ society known for gathering the brightest minds.

Jimmy Savile often boasted about his membership, proudly aligning himself with the world’s top thinkers. While his crimes have since overshadowed his reputation, his intelligence was undeniably a key part of his ability to charm and manipulate, making his connection to Mensa both intriguing and controversial.

Image by Jmb, used under CC BY 2.5

Jimmy Savile vs. Other TV Personalities: Here's How They Compare

While his legacy is marred by controversy, Jimmy Savile showed clear signs of high IQ. As you'll find out below, the entertainment world, often associated with charisma and creativity, has also seen its share of stars whose cognitive brilliance stands out.

Cambridge-educated TV presenter Carol Vorderman, with an IQ of 154, is a prime example. Renowned for her role on Countdown and her ability to solve complex mathematical puzzles live on television, she's also a Mensa member, just like Jummy Savile.

Across the Atlantic, American TV host Conan O'Brien is celebrated not only for his sharp humor but also for his academic achievements. A Harvard graduate with an IQ of 160, Conan showcases his wit in his writing and hosting style. Although not officially a Mensa member, he'd definitely be eligible for it, based on his IQ.

Another familiar name is Danica McKellar, best known for her role as Winnie Cooper in the TV series The Wonder Years. While primarily recognized for her acting, Danica also holds a degree in mathematics and has written books to make math more accessible for young people. Armed with an IQ of 154, she successfully transitioned from Hollywood to academia.

Nolan Gould, who played Luke Dunphy on Modern Family, is another young star who defies expectations. With an IQ of 150, Nolan has spoken openly about his academic achievements, including graduating high school at just 13 years old!

Lastly, Simon Ambrose, known for his strategic brilliance and business acumen, stands out with an IQ of 146. As a former winner of The Apprentice UK, Ambrose used his intelligence to excel in high-pressure situations. He showed how sharp thinking can translate into tangible success.

Illustration composed of multiple sources: images by William Starkey under CC BY 2.0, Defence Imagery under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0, Gage Skidmore under CC BY-SA 3.0, Kuyper under CC BY-SA 3.0, BBC Radio 5 live under CC BY-SA 3.0, hyku under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Incorporated into an illustration

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