Ashley James Faced Financial Struggles During Made in Chelsea Filming
Ashley James, a prominent figure in reality television, recently shared her financial hardships during her time on the popular E4 series, Made in Chelsea. The 38-year-old star revealed that her experience on the show was marked by significant economic struggles.
Ashley James Faces Financial Struggles During Made in Chelsea Filming
James joined the cast of Made in Chelsea as an extra before making her way to the main lineup. However, her compensation was far from generous. She received only £50 per filming session, which severely limited her financial stability. The demanding filming schedule kept her on call, hindering her ability to pursue other job opportunities.
Living Situation and Overdraft Reliance
The financial strain forced James to rely heavily on her overdraft, leaving her unable to cover essential expenses like rent. She candidly reflected on her situation, stating, “I was the poorest I’ve ever been when I was on that show.” Living in a friend’s childhood home during filming highlighted the irony of her circumstances, as she portrayed a character amidst wealth and luxury.
Career Developments Post-Made in Chelsea
Despite these challenges, Ashley James has gone on to achieve notable success in her television career. She secured a regular position on ITV’s This Morning, among other projects. Nevertheless, she has faced new challenges as a working mother.
Balancing Career and Motherhood
James expressed her struggle with “mum guilt,” particularly as it relates to her four-year-old son, Alfie. She acknowledged that the demands of her career sometimes lead to missed bedtimes and increased anxiety for her child.
- Ashley combines work with parenting responsibilities alongside her partner, Tommy Andrews.
- She has turned down lucrative opportunities to prioritize quality time with her children, including her two-year-old daughter, Ada.
- James emphasizes that taking breaks helps her to be a better mother and more fulfilled professionally.
A Perspective on Modern Motherhood
James criticized societal expectations placed on mothers, contrasting them with those for fathers. She noted that mothers face pressure to balance both work and childcare, often leading to unrealistic standards. She stated, “It’s setting ourselves up for failure,” emphasizing the need for societal change in attitudes towards working mothers.
Acknowledging her own limitations, James found fulfillment in a work-life balance, recognizing that her passion fuels her ability to parent effectively.
