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8 Fun Facts About The Bachelor's Matt James

8 Things You Should Know About the Newest Bachelor Matt James

Jun 12 2020

Even though Clare Crawley's season of The Bachelorette hasn't begun filming, we have already been introduced to the newest Bachelor Matt James. On June 12, it was announced that Matt will be the first Black Bachelor and the second Black lead in the franchise's history after Rachel Lindsay's stint as the Bachelorette on season 21. The announcement came after a Bachelor Diversity Campaign was created in the hopes of the show making changes in relation to antiracism and BIPOC representation.

If Matt's name sounds familiar, it's because not only was he supposed to be a contestant on Clare's season, but he's also Bachelorette alum Tyler Cameron's best friend. However, he's so much more than Tyler C.'s friend, and we've laid out just a few facts that'll help you see him for the amazing guy that he is.

Image Source: Getty Images / Jamie McCarthy

1. He's Passionate About Important Causes

One of the things he's most passionate about is the charity he operates called ABC Food Tours, which gives food tours for free to inner-city kids in NYC. The main goal of ABC Food Tours is to allow children in underserved communities experiences they may not have otherwise had access to. Each tour includes both physical and mental wellness components to motivate and educate students. Outside of ABC Food Tours, Matt raises money for charities through runs.

2. He's a North Carolina Native

Although Matt currently resides in New York City, he grew up in Raleigh, NC. He played football at Sanderson High School before attending Wake Forest University.

3. He Played Football at Wake Forest University

After graduating from Sanderson High School in 2010, Matt went on to play football for Wake Forest University. As a wide receiver, he played from 2011-2014 before trying to make it in the NFL. However, he was cut by both the North Carolina Panthers and the New Orleans Saints.

4. He Loves His Mom

His mother, Patty James (or Ms. Patty), is one of his biggest supporters and he considers her his "#1 always and forever." As a sign of his gratitude, he frequently posts about her on Instagram, including this adorable throwback.

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5. He Has a Sense of Humour

Matt certainly knows how to have fun and have a laugh. Some of his best posts include Tyler and the shenanigans they get up to, including this reenactment of one of the cutest viral videos to ever hit the internet. He's also not afraid to post a ridiculous caption.

6. He Enjoys Being Shirtless

Matt's Instagram is full of thirst traps, and we're all for it. Whether he's casually sitting on a car or "surfing" on a fake wave, he makes sure to shake things up with his poses.

7. He Is Extremely Sporty

As an athlete, Matt does what he can to stay fit. Based on his Instagram, his workout of choice appears to be running. When he's not running, though, he's likes to play football, ride horses, skate, surf, snowboard, or play golf. Not sure shirtless snowboarding or golfing is recommended, but he's done both. Maybe he'll invite us next time.

8. He Can Ride a Horse

This one is mainly here to fulfil any fantasies you may have about a mysterious stranger showing up on horseback to take you away. If you were on the fence about whether or not Matt is truly Prince Charming, here he is riding a horse. Case closed.

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