James Charles

Early Life and Background

James Charles Dickinson was born on May 23, 1999, in Bethlehem, New York, USA. He is the son of Skip Dickinson, a contractor, and Christine Dickinson. James has a younger brother, Ian Jeffrey, who is a model. He attended Bethlehem Central High School, graduating in 2017. During his high school years, James faced bullying but chose to focus on his passion for makeup artistry. ​

Introduction to Makeup Artistry

James's journey into makeup began when a friend requested his assistance for her school dance. This experience ignited his interest, leading him to become a self-taught makeup artist. He started sharing his makeup looks on Instagram, quickly gaining attention for his creativity and skill. 

Rise to Prominence

In 2015, James launched his YouTube channel, focusing on makeup tutorials and beauty-related content. His engaging personality and talent attracted a substantial following. A pivotal moment in his career occurred in 2016 when his senior yearbook photo, showcasing his makeup skills, went viral. This exposure led to him becoming the first male ambassador for CoverGirl at the age of 17, partnering with celebrities like Katy Perry to promote the brand's products. ​

Collaborations and Business Ventures

James collaborated with Morphe Cosmetics in 2018 to release the "Morphe x James Charles" palette, featuring 39 vibrant eyeshadow shades. The palette was well-received and showcased his influence in the beauty industry. Additionally, he launched his own merchandise line, Sisters Apparel, further expanding his brand. ​

Social Media Presence

As of April 2025, James boasts over 20 million followers on Instagram and nearly 24 million subscribers on YouTube. His content ranges from makeup tutorials to collaborations with other influencers and celebrities, reflecting his versatility and broad appeal. ​

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, James has received several accolades, including:​

• 2018: Streamy Award for Best Beauty Channel​

• 2018: People's Choice Award for Beauty Influencer​

• 2020: Streamy Award for Show of the Year for "Instant Influencer"

Controversies and Challenges

James's career has faced challenges, including public disputes and allegations that impacted his subscriber count and public image. He has addressed these issues publicly, emphasizing personal growth and learning from past experiences. ​

Recent Endeavors

In 2020, James hosted and co-produced the YouTube Originals reality competition series "Instant Influencer," aimed at discovering the next beauty influencer. The show received positive feedback and showcased his commitment to mentoring aspiring artists. ​

Personal Life

James is openly gay and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using his platform to support inclusivity and self-expression within the beauty community. ​

James Charles's journey from a small-town makeup enthusiast to a global beauty influencer exemplifies his dedication and resilience. Through creativity, entrepreneurial ventures, and advocacy, he continues to make a significant impact on the beauty industry.