James Robert McGowan was born on May 30, 1960, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, to Johnny McGowan, a former light heavyweight boxer from Northern England, and his wife, making him the youngest of three sons. Growing up on the West Island in Montreal, James developed a strong foundation for his future endeavors. He graduated from Concordia University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications, which led him to a career in advertising as a copywriter at an agency. Despite his initial doubts about pursuing an acting career, James's passion for the craft eventually won out, and he began taking on student plays at the William Shatner Building, eventually deciding to make acting his profession.
James's entry into the television industry was not without its challenges, as he faced stiff competition from actors with more extensive resumes, having turned 36 at the time. He started with guest spots on various TV shows, including La Femme Nikita, Mutant-X, Falcon Beach, and Rent-a-Goalie, as well as minor roles in films such as The Perfect Man, The Prince and Me, and Silent Night. His breakthrough came with two successful television commercials, Doctor's Appointment and The Deal, for Verizon Wireless.
James's big break came with the TV movie 10,000 Black Men Named George in 2002, which led to more work and recognition. However, it was his audition for the CBC drama The Border that truly catapulted his career. Initially, he sent in an audition tape, but received no response. He then filmed a guest part on Falcon Beach in Winnipeg, where his agent informed him that the show's casting directors wanted to meet with him. After a second day of callbacks, James was offered the role, which earned him a Gemini nomination for outstanding actor in a drama.
