James Sharp, the eldest member and leader of dearALICE, announced his departure from the pioneering British boy group on July 9, 2026. Taking to Instagram (@jamsharpy), the 25-year-old Huddersfield native shared a deeply personal letter that feels less like a corporate statement and more like a heartfelt conversation with fans over coffee.
"After a lot of thought, and with so much gratitude for everything this journey has given me, I feel now is the right time for me to move on from dearALICE," James wrote. He reflected on the whirlwind that began with the BBC One reality series Made in Korea: The K-Pop Experience, where five young Brits immersed themselves in SM Entertainment's rigorous training system. From debuting with the catchy "Ariana" in February 2025 to navigating cultural bridges between UK charm and K-pop precision, the experience shaped him profoundly.
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As a former social media influencer with millions of followers alongside his twin brother Lewis on the Sharp Twins TikTok, James brought a unique, dance-driven energy and authenticity to the group. Fans (affectionately called ACEZ) recall his standout moments like powerful freestyles and vulnerable shares about living with Autism Spectrum Disorder which made him a relatable figure in an often high-pressure industry.
Industry observers note this isn't unusual for hybrid global acts. "Groups like dearALICE represent bold experiments in cross-cultural idol training," says K-pop analyst Dr. Mina Park. "Solo paths often allow members to leverage personal brands, especially those with pre-existing platforms like James." Recent releases like "Body On" showed promise, but challenges in sustained momentum likely played a role in personal reflections.
James promised more details on future plans soon, leaving doors open for solo music, acting (he appeared in Everybody’s Talking About Jamie), or content creation. The remaining members Dexter, Olly, Reese, and Blaise continue under Moon&Back Media and SM ties, with fans rallying support.
This departure underscores the human side of idol life: balancing dreams, growth, and well-being. Wishing James Sharp the best his next chapter is bound to inspire.
