The 27-year-old initially shot to fame on BBC One’s The Apprentice, after being dubbed the most attractive candidate ever, and his popularity has gone through to roof thanks to a successful month in the Big Brother house.
Speaking to the Daily Star, James said: “It’s still so surreal. I never thought for one minute I would win it. Before I went in there, I wouldn’t have even called myself a celebrity.
“18 months ago I’d sit at home and watch it – never dreaming of being on the show, let alone winning it.”
Businessman James, despite his charming, funny side, has always seemed determined to succeed – and he puts this down to his tough upbringing.
His father was made bankrupt when he was younger, and kids at school bullied him for receiving free meals.
James continued: “I know what it’s like to have nothing. Being bullied inspired me to make some money so I didn’t have to get in the free school meals queue.
“I started buying and selling chocolate. My dad took me to a wholesalers and I bought boxes of chocolate bars. I undercut the tuck shop to the point I started doing it out of business and I got expelled. I was only about 12.”
Now, following his CBB victory, James has caught the reality TV bug. He added: “I’d like to do Strictly or I’m a Celebrity if they’ll have me. Or maybe a dating show. I want to find love. I want to find Mrs Hill to share the rest of my life.”
Something tells us James won’t have much trouble finding a willing life partner…