'My daughter has become my anchor'

Former X Factor winner James Arthur chats about his eventful career and how becoming a father has improved his life

- TONY COWELL

After winning The X Factor in 2012, James Arthur went on to sell more than 30 million records worldwide. However, his experience of fame hasn’t always been plain sailing, with the 35-year-old singer suffering from crippling depression which sent him into a downward spiral and almost cost him his career.

Last November, James and his partner Jessica Grist announced the birth of their daughter, Emily. Here, James reveals for the first time why he believes becoming a dad has finally helped change his outlook on life and started a new chapter for him.

How is Emily getting on? 

She is stunning. There are no words to describe how I feel about her. She has been so good for me, mentally, I think. She’s become my anchor. For most of my life I have been a lone wolf on this selfish endeavour, with a chip on my shoulder, trying to be successful in spite of my difficult beginnings. The moment Emily was born an immediate sense of calmness came over me and I thought I am nowhere near as important as this little baby who I’m now a father to. I feel much more grounded. To me, she is the most beautiful thing in the world. 

Having Emily must have been extra special – given the heartache you both went through when Jess suffered an ectopic pregnancy?