Ashley James Triumphs Over Financial Hardships During Made in Chelsea Filming
Ashley James, a prominent figure from reality television, has revealed the financial hardships she encountered during her time filming Made in Chelsea. The 38-year-old recounted the significant economic struggles she faced while being part of the popular E4 series.
Ashley James Triumphs Over Financial Hardships
Initially joining Made in Chelsea as an extra, Ashley quickly transitioned to a main cast member. Despite this, her earnings were disappointingly low, at just £50 per filming session. This inadequate income created substantial financial strain.
Impact of the Filming Schedule
- Limited earnings: £50 per session
- Heavy reliance on overdraft for daily expenses
- Struggled to cover essential living costs
Ashley admitted that the demanding filming schedule restricted her ability to seek alternative income sources. During this challenging period, she often relied on her overdraft just to make ends meet. Reflecting on her time on the show, she stated, “I was the poorest I’ve ever been.” Living in her friend’s childhood home further underscored the contrast between her public persona and her financial reality.
Post-Made in Chelsea Career Success
Despite her financial challenges, Ashley has enjoyed significant career success after leaving Made in Chelsea. She has secured a regular spot on ITV’s This Morning and engaged in various other professional pursuits.
Balancing Motherhood and Career
Now a mother of two, Ashley faces new challenges in harmonizing her family life with her career. She often feels “mum guilt,” especially concerning her four-year-old son, Alfie, and her two-year-old daughter, Ada. The demands of her job sometimes result in missed bedtime routines, heightening her anxieties about parenting.
- Children: Alfie (4) and Ada (2)
- Partner: Tommy Andrews
- Prioritizes time with family over financial opportunities
Ashley emphasizes the value of taking breaks from work. She believes that stepping back enhances both her parenting and her professional satisfaction. She has voiced concerns regarding the societal expectations placed on mothers, which often create unrealistic pressures to balance work and childcare effectively. Ashley advocates for a reassessment of these expectations, stating, “It’s setting ourselves up for failure.”
By acknowledging her limits and fostering a work-life balance, she asserts that pursuing her passions ultimately leads to more effective parenting.
