Latham was born in Burnley, Lancashire on New Year's Day, 1982. Latham attended Park High school in Colne and later Walton High School in Nelson. Latham has a son, Jack, who was born in Latham's late teens. In 2006, Latham was cautioned by Lancashire police for possession of cannabis.

Jody used to attend Burnley Youth Theatre where his acting career started

He made his television debut in 2000 as "Nelson Catchpole" in the series Big Meg, Little Meg. He then played Lee, one of the key characters on When I Was 12 in 2001.

Latham worked regularly in television before being cast as "Lip" Gallagher, the second oldest of the Gallagher children. Lip is an intelligent and outspoken youth who is trying to escape from the Chatsworth estate in Stretford.

He took on other work between series, until he was written out of the show in 2008 to allow him to concentrate on other projects.

Latham played a leading role in the BBC drama Mr Harvey Lights a Candle which was shown at Easter 2005. He also appeared in an episode of the BBC drama The Street, written by Jimmy McGovern,in April 2006.

In 2006 Latham filmed a short film A Neutral Corner about a young boxer arriving in a desolate town where he meets a dog, a stranger and a mysterious waitress.

In 2007 he appeared in Ruby Blue with Bob Hoskins - this was Latham's first film role.

Since leaving Shameless, he has appeared in ITV1's The Fixer playing the cheeky scally character Callum, which was broadcast during March/April 2008, and played a part in the music video Moonshine & Roses by International One.

He has also turned presenter - hosting the NME Awards aftershow party interviewing award winners. He also been the face & voice of numerous brands including Clearisil, Orange Mobile, Gio Goi and many more including the BBC flagship station Radio 1.