James was born in Greenwich, London. He graduated from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in 2010. He was critically acclaimed in the lead guest role of unpredictable outlaw Dean Fallon in BBC drama 'Silent Witness'. Most recently, he shocked audiences with his portrayal of abusive East-End gangster Lester Watts in the nationwide favourite, 'Call The Midwife' for BBC1. James is also a successful model managed by Select Model Management.