Matt James was born on December 5, 1991, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He was raised primarily by his mother, Patty James, after his parents separated during his early years. James comes from a diverse background, with his father, Manny James, being of Nigerian descent and his mother of American origin. Growing up, he faced the challenges of being biracial and often spoke about the struggles that shaped his identity. He attended Sanderson High School, where he was actively involved in sports and excelled as a football player. His passion for athletics continued into his college years when he attended Wake Forest University. At Wake Forest, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and was a key player on the university’s football team, playing as a wide receiver from 2011 to 2014. His performance on the field gained attention, but his academic dedication was equally commendable, setting the stage for his future career path.
Professional Football Aspirations
After graduating from Wake Forest University in 2015, Matt James pursued a career in professional football. He participated in mini-camp tryouts for both the Carolina Panthers and the New Orleans Saints in the National Football League (NFL). However, he was not signed by either team, leading him to explore alternative career opportunities. Despite this setback, his experience in athletics played a crucial role in developing his discipline, perseverance, and resilience, which would later contribute to his success in different fields.
Transition to Real Estate and Entrepreneurship
Following his brief stint in football, Matt James transitioned into the corporate world. He started working at PNC Bank in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, before relocating to New York City, where he joined CBRE Group, Inc., a leading commercial real estate firm. His role in real estate allowed him to develop a keen understanding of business and finance. While working in real estate, he also became passionate about giving back to the community. Recognizing the struggles faced by underprivileged youth, he founded ABC Food Tours, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating children in underserved communities about nutrition, exercise, and healthy living. His work with ABC Food Tours garnered significant attention, showcasing his commitment to philanthropy and community service.
The Bachelor and Television Fame
Matt James initially gained media attention through his close friendship with Tyler Cameron, a former contestant on “The Bachelorette.” His rising popularity and strong public presence led to his initial casting as a contestant for the 16th season of “The Bachelorette.” However, due to production delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the producers of the show made an unprecedented decision to cast him as the lead of “The Bachelor” Season 25. This historic decision made him the first African-American male lead in the franchise’s history.
His season of “The Bachelor” was one of the most highly anticipated, given the ongoing conversations about racial diversity and representation in media. Throughout the season, he formed strong connections with multiple contestants, ultimately choosing to pursue a relationship with Rachael Kirkconnell. However, their relationship was met with controversy after past racially insensitive photos of Kirkconnell surfaced, sparking widespread discussions. Despite the challenges, James and Kirkconnell worked through their differences and remained together for several years.
Dancing with the Stars and Other Television Appearances
Following his stint on “The Bachelor,” Matt James expanded his television career by joining Season 30 of “Dancing with the Stars.” He was paired with professional dancer Lindsay Arnold and showcased his athleticism and competitive spirit on the dance floor. Although he was eliminated in week four, his participation in the show demonstrated his versatility as a media personality. His charming personality and ability to connect with audiences further solidified his place in the entertainment industry, opening doors for potential future television projects and brand collaborations.
Latest News and Personal Life
As of January 2025, Matt James and Rachael Kirkconnell have officially ended their four-year relationship. The news came as a surprise to many fans, as the couple had seemingly overcome past controversies and challenges. James announced the breakup on January 16, 2025, expressing his appreciation for their time together while requesting privacy during this period. Kirkconnell also addressed the split, stating that she was still processing the end of their relationship. Despite their separation, both individuals have continued to focus on their personal and professional growth.
Physical Appearance and Height
Matt James is known for his striking physical presence. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters), he has a towering and athletic build, a reflection of his years as a collegiate athlete. He maintains a strong and well-defined physique, weighing approximately 211 pounds (96 kilograms). His charismatic personality, combined with his tall stature, makes him a standout figure in the television and entertainment industry. His sense of style and well-groomed appearance further contribute to his public appeal, making him a favorite among fans and media outlets.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Matt James has an estimated net worth of $2 million. His earnings come from multiple sources, including his real estate career, television appearances, brand endorsements, and entrepreneurial ventures. His role as “The Bachelor” significantly increased his market value, leading to numerous opportunities in media and sponsorship deals. Additionally, his work with ABC Food Tours has also received support from various organizations, further contributing to his overall financial success. With his growing presence in the entertainment industry, his net worth is expected to rise in the coming years.
