James Graham calls accidental coming out 'a blessing in disguise': 'I can finally be who I am'

Days after James Graham surprised netizens with her new look on TikTok, she said she is grateful for how her coming out as a member of the LGBT+ community unfolded.

In an interview with GMA News Online, the Filipino-American Sparkle artist said she was initially terrified before posting the TikTok video.

“My initial reaction was fright,” she admitted. “I was so scared.”

According to James, she feared being judged and didn't expect the overwhelming positive response after posting the video.

As of writing, her TikTok video, uploaded four days ago, has amassed more than four million views.

“Hindi ko inakala na magiging positive ‘yung mga comments,” James said.

“And with the positive comments, I guess it kind of helped me to accept the fact that I already came out,” she added.

Although her coming out happened by accident, James now considers it a "blessing in disguise."

“I’m at peace with how it unfolded, because I feel like I would have never told anyone if it didn’t come down to that,” she said.

James added that she didn't want to look back with regret for not embracing her identity earlier in life.

To those on a similar journey, the "Royal Blood" actor encouraged them to trust their own timing.

“You just have to believe in yourself,” James said. “You can come out, in your own time, as long as you’re comfortable. There’s no rush.”

“You just have to know that there is someone out there who will always love and accept you for who you are,” she added.

James said she finally feels free that now that everyone knows her true self.

“I’m living my best life,” she said. “I feel like I can finally be who I am.”

In February 2025, James moved to the United States to pursue a nursing degree.

In 2023, James was awarded Outstanding Youth of the Philippines, alongside Princess Aliyah and Aidan Veneracion. — LA, GMA News