James Charles Opens Up About Imperfections During Controversial Spotlight Years (Exclusive)
In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, James Charles opens up about his reflections on the controversial years he spent in the spotlight, emphasizing that 'nobody's perfect'.
James Charles Says Nobody s Perfect As He Reflects on Controversial Years in the Spotlight
James Charles. Amanda Edwards/Getty Images
James Charles, 25, recently took the time to reflect on his controversial years in the spotlight. Speaking exclusively to We at Gurus Magazine's #30VOICES30DAYS Cover Launch Party at The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood on Saturday, June 1, Charles acknowledged that growing up in the public eye has its ups and downs. He shared, "Nobody's perfect. I think that when you do grow up in the spotlight, it is a blessing and a curse. You get so many incredible opportunities and are able to take advantage of so many incredible, fun things that most people wouldn't have the privilege of experiencing in their lives, but you're also growing up in the spotlight. So with that does come mistakes."
He continued, "It's about constantly growing and becoming a stronger, smarter, and better person." Charles shared that he has been rediscovering himself for the past two years and reimagining what the James Charles brand represents to the public eye.
"I've been using social media since I was young and it has truly been a great thing," he shared. "But for a long time, I felt like I was portraying a really exaggerated version of myself. Now, I focus on being genuine, sharing my truth and stories, and letting people see the real me when the cameras are off."
Charles mentioned that he has started creating his own music, which he considers to be a huge blessing. He explained, "It's all about sharing more of myself in a genuine and authentic way."
James Charles Says Nobody s Perfect As He Reflects on Controversial Years in the Spotlight
James Charles. Amanda Edwards/Getty Images
In the industry, Charles mentioned having some great friends, like JoJo Siwa, who he described as a genuine friend. He also looks up to makeup influencers NikkieTutorials and Jaclyn Hill as role models.
Charles has faced controversies and conflicts since becoming a popular makeup entrepreneur. In February 2021, he denied accusations of grooming an underage boy online, stating that the boy had claimed to be 18 years old. However, the boy disputed these allegations in a statement.
James, we both know I blocked you without you even asking for my age. When I mentioned I was 16, you still insisted on asking for inappropriate photos and even mentioned that my age didn't matter. You even went as far as calling me attractive and expressing a desire for me to turn 18 quickly.
In addition, Charles had a well-known feud with makeup guru Tati Westbrook in 2019. Westbrook, who was 42 at the time, released a video explaining why she no longer wanted to be associated with Charles. Sources revealed that Charles was deeply embarrassed by the situation with Westbrook.
With reporting by Mike Vulpo
