James Patrice, TV personality
Name and position: James Patrice, TV personality
Age: 30
Lives: Dublin
Family: Mum Fron, Dad Jim, Sister Vanessa
Pets: None, but I do have a lot of shoes. They need looking after too, right?
Favourite thing about Cork: It’s got to be the people - everyone is always so friendly and anytime I head out there the craic does be ninety. Also - the Penneys is amazing!
Least favourite thing about Cork: Well now I couldn’t POSSIBLY say anything bad about Cork in this lovely publication now, could I?!
One thing you’d change about Cork: Well do ya know what, maybe less hills. I do be sweatin’ going up and down them sometimes. Then again, they’re great for the derrière, aren’t they?
When you were small, what did you want to be as a grown-up?
Would you believe, when I was four I wanted to be a librarian. I loved books! Then I discovered speech and drama and knew that the librarian life may have been a little too quiet for me.
Tell us about your career progression to your role today:
It’s been a little bit of an unusual path to say the least! After I graduated from Trinity College I did a little acting here and there, and worked in retail on the side - not exactly conducive to a career in media I know! I also did a TV presenting course which I adored, and was always on the lookout for the chance to get any experience I could. Then, randomly, I started snapchatting my day-to-day life for the craic, and before I knew it I’d built up a good number of followers for myself. That led to some TV styling work on Ireland AM, and acting in a kids show on RTÉ Junior. I started doing some bits for RTÉ Social, and worked my way up to becoming the backstage reporter for the Rose of Tralee and ‘Dancing with the Stars’, as well as a contributor on RTÉ Today right here in Cork. They’re amazing shows to be a part of!
What is the most enjoyable aspect of what you do?
I’d have to say the variety of every day - between social media and TV it’s always a mixed bag, so you’re constantly adapting and being kept on your toes. I love it!
What motivates you?
Taking pride in my work definitely motivates me to keep going. I want to be the best that I can be, and will always look at ways to improve myself!
What advice would you give your 15-year-old self?
Don’t care so much what others think of you, and in the end, life is too fabulous to be worrying so much.
If you weren’t in the job you have, what would you be doing?
Well, the dream would be to work as Letitia Dean’s (Sharon Mitchell’s) personal assistant on EastEnders. What I wouldn’t give to witness that Shazza glare in person!
What is your greatest life or career achievement to-date?
Getting to work for RTÉ on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ was a real highlight for me. I had to screen test for the role against some stiff competition, and I was proud of myself for getting the job! Also, getting to take to the stage for the Olympia panto is an absolute dream come true. I played Genie last year in Aladdin, and I know that six-year-old James heading to drama class after school every week would only be thrilled!
Who has had the biggest influence on you in your life?
I’d have to say my mum. Fron, along with my dad and my sister, has always been an incredible source of support and encouragement, and I look up to her so much. She’s always taught me to not give a you-know-what about what other people think, and to do what makes me feel good. She’s a legend!
What is the life dream now?
One day, I’d love to have my own chat show. I love nothing more than hitting the streets and interviewing people for various things, and I thrive on having the craic with a person and getting them to open up. I’ve been told I’m quite good at getting people to tell me things they wouldn’t usually be comfortable discussing - something that would bode quite well on a chat show!
How do you switch off?
This may make me sound like an aul one, but you can’t beat a cuppa tea and an episode of EastEnders. Bliss!
What is your favourite Cork memory?
Whenever I think of Cork, I always think of ‘Today with Maura and Dáithí’. I go down almost every week when the show is on air and I love my little ritual of getting the train down, chatting with the guys on air and then having a little peruse around the city before I get my train back. It’s the dream show to be a part of, and I think its base in Cork plays a huge part in that. It’s warm, friendly, and the absolute craic.
What is your favourite place in Cork?
Well, first and foremost - Patrick Street. I’ve gotta hit those shops gals! But for a nice bit of peace and quiet, I love Fitzgerald Park. I hung out there last year for the Laya Healthcare City Spectacular and it was mighty. Of course, it isn’t so quiet when City Spec lands… sure, it’s the ultimate day out with the gang. Roll on 20 July!
Do you have a favourite quote or motto?
Would you believe, it’s a ‘Desperate Housewives’ quote, and I swear by it - ‘you can’t prevent what you can’t predict’.
When are you at your happiest?
I’m definitely at my happiest when I’m doing something that I love. You can’t beat the thrill of a camera rolling live or having the craic on Instagram, lip-syncing away to your hearts content!
Any regrets?
Ah no - sure who’d have time for that?
What is your hidden talent?
I’m quite impressive with my eyebrow work - I can move them to the beat of any song!
What might we be surprised to know about you?
I’m actually only 21, can you believe it?! (I wish!)