Disappearing act: James Patrice on keeping his weight in check after Celebrity Operation Transformation

By Irene Feighan

JAMES Patrice’s online video may be just 17-seconds long but it speaks volumes about his humour and his “never give a feck” attitude.

It’s a hot summer’s evening and, dressed in a torn T-shirt, shorts and legwarmers, he replays the iconic water scene from the movie Flashdance.

But instead of a slick chain to release a torrent of water, James uses a plastic bucket. It’s slapstick silly, but his exuberance and wild dance moves are infectious.

When Ireland is that feckin' hot that you need to cool EVERY CREVICE OF YA NUALA 💦 (and channel your inner @joanneclifton @FlashdanceUK 😂💃🏻) pic.twitter.com/gRpoZie2eo

— James Patrice (@JamesPatrice) June 29, 2018

“I just like to have a bit of craic,” says the social media influencer. “I do the backstage reporting for Dancing with the Stars, so I pick up a few bits from the professionals. It’s a bit of a laugh. I don’t take anything too seriously. Just give everything a go, I suppose.”

He makes it look effortless, but a degree in drama and French from Trinity College, Dublin suggests a serious work ethic. And, given that all the world’s a stage for the smartphone generation, his acting background has helped to give him an important edge. “Even when presenting or hosting — there’s always an element of performing — you’re creating a heightened version of yourself. The acting and the training definitely helps with that. You’re giving 110% of yourself.”

Though there are things he wouldn’t divulge about his family, he sees himself as an open book, particularly when it comes to his weight.

“If you’re having a crap day, things to make you feel better:

I think it’s good to be open and talk about things, because it’s no use bottling it up,” says the 29-year-old Dubliner.

Living at home with his parents and sister, he’s single, but he has a significant flexible friend in his life: “I’m in a relationship with my debit card. We get on great.”

James Patrice is the festival Host and MC of Laya Healthcare’s City Spectacular 2018. Join him in Merrion Square this weekend on the new action-packed ‘It’s Good to Live Stage’, where kids and parents can challenge him to a dance off and more.

What shape are you in?

I’m in relatively good shape. I did Celebrity Operation Transformation last September. I lost just over two stone and I’ve managed to keep it off. There is always still a bit to lose, but at the moment I’m very happy with myself. I always try and get the 10,000 steps in every day. A few times a week, I try and do a proper walk. We live in Malahide and there’s a lovely coast along the beach. And going around Pennys — it’s my cardio.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

I eat a lot of fish. I love smoked salmon. I try and eat it every day at some point. Also, a bowl of porridge in the morning to have a good start to the day. A healthy snack would be Ryvita, Philidelphia (cream cheese), a bit of smoked salmon and black pepper.

What are your guiltiest pleasures?

A takeaway. You can’t beat a good fish and chips. Angelo’s in Malahide is lovely. It’s a childhood favourite.

What would keep you awake at night?

The usual worries, family or friends, but at the moment I take things in my stride. You have to balance everything and try not to get too bogged down.

How do you relax?

Going for a walk is always good, or I’d put on a bit of music, or watch TV.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

I’d have to have Beyoncé; Joan Rivers, she was a big icon of mine, she was fearless; RuPaul, the US drag queen; and my mum, but there’d be a bit of a double-edged sword— she’d have to help me out with the cooking.

What’s your favourite smell?

Lemon grass. It always reminds me of getting a nice facial or going to get a massage.

What would you like to change about your appearance?

No. I think I’m OK — even more so since I lost the weight.

When is the last time you cried?

Watching something on television. Probably an episode from Eastenders.

What traits do you least like in others?

Dishonesty.

What traits do you least like about yourself?

I’m a bit of a worrier at times. I worry about the smallest little things. For example, If I thought I’d fallen out with someone and I probably hadn’t.

Do you pray?

I’m definitely very spiritual. I would pray in my own way to God. I do believe that there is something greater out there. We don’t really have a grasp on it yet.

What would cheer up your day?

A coffee and a browse around Pennys.