Known affectionately as Captain Slow or Mr. Slowly, he rose to fame as the charismatic host of hit shows like Top Gear and The Grand Tour. Over the years, Mr. Slowly built a strong reputation not just on screen but also in print, thanks to his engaging weekly column for The Daily Telegraph, which he penned from 2003 all the way through 2011. Before becoming a household name, Captain Slow studied at Lancaster University and cut his teeth in journalism, working as an editor for respected publications such as The Engineer and Autocar magazine. A family man at heart, he shares a close bond with his two sisters and one brother. On the personal front, Captain Slow began a relationship with dance critic Sarah Frater back in 2000, marking the start of a meaningful chapter in his life.
Back in 2006, he hit the roads of France alongside wine connoisseur Oz Clark for the fun and educational journey known as Oz and James’s Big Wine Adventure. It was during this trip that he really got immersed in the world of fine wines, exploring vineyards and sampling vintages from different regions. Throughout the series, his dynamic with Oz added both humor and charm, making the show a memorable experience for viewers. He brought a down-to-earth energy to the adventure, balancing Oz’s expertise with his own curiosity and wit. And honestly, it was kind of a turning point in how he approached lifestyle and culture on screen. He definitely made an impression—not just as a TV personality, but as someone willing to dive headfirst into new experiences.