James Mathison

James: (on his decision to leave Australian Idol) There is a part of me who has a little bit struggled with being 'that guy from that thing' and taking a step back totally allows you to do what you want to do without that scrutiny. For six years Australian Idol has been my life. You really don't have time to do anything else. I might not have been the greatest friend to people because I had no time so it would be cool to change that.

James: (on his most nervous interview) The first interview I ever did was with Destiny's Child and I was packing it. I thought they'd ease me off with some local pub band but no, straight in at the deep end. I was terrified!

James: (on the Australian Idol finale) I'm a big music fan, so it's exciting when there's been a lot happening locally to get everybody into the same room for one big hurrah and to let off some confetti cannons. And to drink loads. Let's not beat around the bush - it's a big part of what the night's about.

James: (describing his job of 'anchor presenter' on Australian Idol) It's a term similar to "host", but with a lot less pressure. You've basically got other people to blame if it all goes wrong.

James: (his favourite all time band/album) Sleater Kinney, Fugazi, Elliot Smith, Jeff Buckley, Rage Against The Machine…

James: (his first kiss) Year 4. Debbie Lisell. Back of the school dunnies.

James: (his worst ever fashion mistake) Any time I have ever worn Speedos, it's been a mistake. That shit should be illegal.

James: (his most embarrassing school experience) I used to accidentally call my female teachers "mum" a lot. Is that weird?

James: (asked if he's ever done a Jackass stunt at home) I've done the reverse tequila shot. You snort the salt, squirt the lemon in your eye and do the shot of tequila.