James Mathison

Best Laid Plans

Life is full of wonderful twists and turns and can take you down roads not listed in your dog-eared street directory. You may have heard the expression that the best laid plans of mice and men often go astray and that certainly applies to one James Mathison.

James' career plans as a young whipper snapper included fireman (everybody loves a fireman), carpenter (a noble and ancient art) and rock star (de rigueur for any young man worth his salt). Exactly which of these were "best laid" plans it’s hard to say but go astray they most certainly did.

When James decided to enter Channel [V]’s Reporter Search competition his life was to change irrevocably. His dream of being a rock star was soon replaced by interviews with rock stars. Not a bad trade off – I’m sure you’ll agree!

After blagging his way in through the front door James has gone on to become one of Channel [V]'s most popular presenters, working on the live request show whatuwant, the Channel [V] live events.

In a job not lacking special moments, a definite highlight for James would have to be the time the Rolling Stones granted him the only Australian interview with each band member. The Ray Martins and the Jana Wendts were nowhere to be seen. James was flown half way around the world for the privilege. Now that’s rock star!

James' passion for music, and his natural ability to connect with people, made him the prefect candidate to co-host the phenomenon that took Australia by storm – Australian Idol, now in its fourth series.

Ably assisted by his Channel [V] stable mate, Andrew G, James brings warmth, empathy and a sense of cohesion to the incredible journey that is Australian Idol.

In addition to his Australian Idol and Channel [V] commitments, James hosted last years ARIA's and appeared in his first feature film - BoyTown, to be released in 2006.

In April of 2006 James was awarded an ASTRA award for Favourite Male Personality.