Matt James

December 5, 2024

Fast Facts
Background
Career Timeline
Why We Love
Surprising Facts
FAQs

Matthew “Matt” James, born on December 5, 1991, in North Carolina, is the first male African-American to star as the lead person on “The Bachelor.” He made his debut in Season 25 in 2021. That same year, he partnered with famous dancer Lindsay Arnold to compete in season 30 of “Dancing with the Stars.” We will help you celebrate his special day right here!

Fast Facts

Full Name:

Matthew James

Nickname:

Matt

Birth date:

December 5, 1991

Age:

Zodiac Sign:

Sagittarius

Height:

6' 4"

Relationship Status:

In a relationship

Net Worth:

$250 thousand

Background

Matthew “Matt” James was born, in North Carolina, on December 5, 1991. He is the son of Manny and Patty James and is of mixed race. His father is Nigerian, while his mother is caucasian American. In 2010, he graduated from Sanderson High School and furthered to Wake Forest University where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Economics in 2015.

James’ fame kick-started when he made his on-screen debut as a reality star on “The Bachelorette.” In 2020, he got selected to be the next bachelor for “The Bachelor’s” season 25 becoming the first African American male lead which later premiered in 2021. James was a perfect fit for the role because he is handsome, well-rounded, tall, and has a sense of humor. The season ended when he chose Rachael Krkconnell to pursue a relationship with her. In 2021, he partnered with famous dancer Arnold to compete in season 30 of “Dancing with the Stars.” James and Arnold finished 12th place.

James co-founded a non-profit organization called A.B.C. Food Tours, aimed at providing nutritional fitness to kids in low-income communities in New York City. James has worked with companies including Delta and American Express. He is currently in a relationship with Kirkconnell and is very outspoken about the Black Lives Matter movement.

Career timeline

2011

He Assists His Alma Mata’s Athletic Department

James helps his Alma Mata's athletic department as Santa Claus in wrapping and distributing gifts to 1,600 families.

2013

He Serves as a Broker Assistant

James works for Davenport & Company L.C.C. as a broker assistant.

2014

He Works as a Social Media Strategist

James works for Morgan Stanley, leading their social media team as a strategist.

2015

He Graduates

James earns a Bachelor's degree in economics from Wake Forest University.

2018

He Co-Founds A.B.C. Food Tours

James co-founds A.B.C. Food Tours, a charity organization that provides nutritional fitness to kids in less privileged communities in New York City.

Why We Love Matt James

He uses his voice for social causes
James uses his social media channel to spread light about special causes such as the Black Lives Matter movement. James is never afraid to speak up on issues close to home.
He loves his mom
James' mother is one of his biggest cheerleaders. He considers her his number one fan and always posts her on his Instagram.
He has a good sense of humor
James' Instagram pictures can attest to that. He truly enjoys being able to put smiles on people's faces.

5 Surprising Facts

He worked as a social media influencer
James has influenced countless brands, including Delta and American Express.
He loves to dance
James and Arnold finished 14th place in season 30 of "Dancing with the Stars."
The first African-American on "The Bachelor"
James becomes the first African-American male on A.B.C.'s reality T.V.-Show, "The Bachelor."
He’s into real estate
James is a Real Estate Associate at the Coldwell Banker Richard Ellis (C.R.B.E.) Group.
He used to play football
James was a wide receiver on the football team at Wake Forest University.