Ashley James reveals she questioned her sexuality and dated girls during her stint on Made In Chelsea

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Ashley James has revealed she struggled with her sexuality. 

The 38-year-old TV star revealed she began questioning her sexuality around age 14 and even dated women while appearing on the reality show Made In Chelsea from 2012 to 2013.

In a recent podcast interview with Harriet Rose, Ashley shared that she used to kiss girls while out socializing, but was left feeling puzzled when they’d dismiss it as a clumsy, alcohol-fueled incident.

During the interview, Harriet asked about my sexuality and why it had been hard for me to discuss it openly.

You know, looking back, my journey of self-discovery really began way back in my younger years – I’m talking Bebo days! It was then that I first started questioning my sexuality. It’s funny how memories come flooding back, isn’t it? As a mom of two with my partner Tommy, reflecting on these early moments feels important.

‘When I Googled when Bebo came out, it said 18, but I’m sure I remember being around like, 14/15.’

I was so fascinated by Ashley’s story about discovering who she was. She talked about how going out in Newcastle, even though we were all too young, really opened her eyes. She actually told me about kissing a girl in a club one night – it was a really pivotal moment for her, and she shared it so openly.

The next day, I’d reflect on what happened and feel embarrassed, or pretend to feel embarrassed. But secretly, I didn’t think it was a big deal at all.

The men would try to get her attention, but she often dismissed it as just a game they played to attract male interest.

The TV personality admitted the rejection made her feel lost and unsure of who she was.

She explained that on Bebo, she’d set her profile to show she was interested in girls. She recalled frequently chatting with one girl online, and felt that connection provided a sense of security for her.

Harriet then asked if she was dating women while she was on the reality TV series Made In Chelsea.

Ashley explained that she was worried her attraction to girls would become known. She felt that if any of her relationships had become more serious, it would have forced her to come out.

The reality star fell in love with Tommy, who she connected with on the dating app Hinge while everyone was staying home during the pandemic. They later had two children: a son named Alfie, who is five, and a daughter named Ada, who is three.

She explained that she’s currently in a straight relationship, but that doesn’t change her strong support for the LGBTQ+ community. She feels a particular connection to queerness and believes that’s why she’s such a dedicated ally.

Ashley explained that her experiences raising her children have deeply influenced her approach to education. She emphasized the importance of avoiding assumptions, saying, ‘I really try not to assume anything when it comes to my kids.’

As a lifestyle expert, I often hear people making assumptions about others’ relationships – you know, asking ‘Is that his girlfriend?’ or assuming someone has a boyfriend. Honestly, I always gently push back on that. It’s easy to jump to conclusions, but we really don’t know what’s going on in anyone else’s life, and it’s best not to assume!

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2026-03-11 02:06