James Lock has opened up about the the struggles of being a reality star as he teases an upcoming film role.
The 35-year-old said it's "hard" and that people who find fame on reality TV shows "aren't respected".
James, also known as Lockie, first stepped onto the Made In Chelsea set in 2013 and has been a cast member ever since.
But in recent episodes of the show James has revealed that he's landed an exciting role in a mystery film.
He said that it's not a "Micky Mouse film", and insisted it will be a "proper film with credible actors".
Speaking about his transition he told OK!: "The thing is, reality TV stars – if you want to call us that – are not really respected and I don't know why because it takes a lot to do what we do, it's very difficult, it's a lot harder than people realise.
"Acting gets a lot more credibility, acting is an art. But I prefer the acting, because when I'm on TOWIE and I'm playing Lockie – myself – people think they know me, people scrutinise me and they have opinions about me, my life, you know?"
He explained that viewers don't realise how tough it can be to portray yourself in a certain light.
James, who is currently starring in Ex On The Beach, told OK!: "The project I talked about within TOWIE is still very much happening. I've done a few little roles just to get my confidence and to get used to acting, learning my lines and everything that goes with it."
He said that he's "officially" an actor now too after announcing that he's landed himself a space on Spotlight - the professional casting directory.
The ITVBe reality star recently called himself a "very troubled man" and has always dreamed of being an actor but admitted that his self confidence held him back.
He said that he still "loves" reality TV and isn't looking to leave it any time soon, but says he's excited to embark on a new path.
He said that he will be sharing the news on the film "when the timing is right", but said that it will be "very, very soon".
James recently revealed that he has gone teetotal.
The former party animal said his hard days on the town are over and that he's focusing on his career.
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He told the Express that he had been off booze since the new year.
"I had a bit of a blowout on New Year's Eve but after that I stopped drinking."
"Being a champagne Charlie - those days are over. I wanna be the best version of myself.
"I need to stay focused and drinking stops my focus."
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