James was born in Toronto, Canada to a Japanese mother and a Chinese father who raised him in a Caucasian suburban neighborhood. This unique upbringing would forever imprint James with the distinct characteristics of both cultures, allowing him to seamlessly navigate between the conscientious hard-work ethic of his Asian heritage and the fearless risk-taking nature of his Western upbringing.
This innate duality has proven to be a remarkable asset in James' career as an actor, allowing him to bring depth, perspective, and humor to his performances, as well as an innate compassion to a wide range of characters. Unbeknownst to many, James never initially intended to pursue a career in acting. He instead studied architecture in college and worked with an interior design firm, creating architectural drawings.
However, fate had other plans for James. He accompanied a girlfriend to an interview at a commercial agency, and it was James who left with a contract, not his girlfriend. This unexpected turn of events sparked a newfound interest in acting, and James soon became one of the top male models and commercial actors in Toronto. His face became ubiquitous throughout the city, with one notable appearance being plastered across the facade of the Musee Des Beaux-Arts in Montreal, Canada, dressed as a 12th century Samurai Warrior.
This iconic image marked a turning point for James, as he decided to leave Toronto behind and commit to a career in Los Angeles. The City of Angels brought James steady commercial work, as well as opportunities in television and film. He has had the privilege of working with esteemed actors such as George Clooney, William H. Macy, Jamie Kennedy, and Dennis Haysbert, as well as directors like Paul Thomas Anderson, Simon West, and Betty Thomas.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, James is optimistic about the increasing opportunities for ethnic actors to play a broad range of roles, including leading men who don't practice martial arts - one of the few things James doesn't do. He believes that his Asian heritage will no longer define him or his work, but rather be one more asset he can bring to the table.
Today, James resides in Culver City with his 14-year-old son, his wife, and stepdaughter, a loving family that brings him joy and fulfillment.
