July 2008

10 minutes with... James Tobin

The latest and youngest addition to Channel 7’s Sunrise team, James Tobin is the new entertainment reporter on the block. We chat with him about his new gig

WORDS ANNE LOH

How goes the reporting gig on Sunrise?
I am absolutely loving it! This is a dream job for me. Each day is so different and diverse – one day I’m interviewing Dave Grohl from the Foo Fighters and the next, I’m doing a story on “A Day in the Life of Jennifer Hawkins”. Sitting down and having a chat with some of the world’s most famous people is awesome – my mates are always after the inside info!

Is it all you expected the job to be?
To be honest, it’s even better. I’ve always been a fan of Sunrise so to be a part of it is incredible. I reckon I’ve got the best job of all being the entertainment reporter.

What’s a typical day like?
One of the things I like best about the job is that there’s no such thing as a typical day. During the week I do a few interviews, go for movie screenings and music gigs. I’m up early to appear on Sunrise and up late at night for red carpet interviews and band performances.

Who has been your favourite celeb interview?
That’s a really tough one. I have already met so many amazing people. I loved chatting to Robert Downey Jr and Juliette Lewis because they are such off-the-wall characters. Hugh Jackman is a genuinely nice guy and Michelle Monaghan from Made of Honour was lovely!

2008 has been great for you so far – nominated a Cleo Bachelor of the Year as well – how do you stay grounded?
I’ve got the best bunch of mates and a really close family. If I ever get too big for my boots, they would knock me back down to the ground in a flash!

Travelling as much as you do for work – what do you never leave home without?
My one essential item is my toiletries bag. I often have to travel at the drop of a hat and have just 10 minutes to pack. My toiletries bag is always ready to go – it contains a toothbrush, shaver, moisturiser, hair fudge and TV makeup. And of course, I always have my iPod!

Sounds like you’ve got your hands full then!
There is so much going on in the world of entertainment that it really is a full-time job. Yep, I know, it’s tough but someone has to do it!