Matt James is an American television personality, businessman, and former NCAA football player. James is best known for being the first Black male lead for The Bachelor in season 25.

Early life and education

James was raised in Raleigh, North Carolina, the son of Manny and Patty James. Growing up, James was raised by his mother.He is biracial, having a Black Nigerian father and White American mother. James identifies as black. He graduated from Sanderson High School in 2010 before going to Wake Forest University. James obtained his Bachelor's degree in Economics from Wake Forest University in 2015 where he was also a wide receiver for Wake Forest Demon Deacons football team from 2011 to 2014

Career

Before moving to New York City, James worked at PNC Bank in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He works for CBRE Group, Inc., a commercial real estate company in New York City. James is also the founder of ABC Food Tours, a non-profit organization that educates children in underserved communities about food and exercise in New York City.