Former professional dancers Ola and James Jordan, known for their long tenure on the BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing," have announced the end of their 22-year marriage. The couple, who began dating in 1999 and married in 2003, confirmed they have parted ways for good after a trial separation that has been ongoing for some time.
In a statement released by their representative, the couple expressed that their shared priority remains the well-being and co-parenting of their six-year-old daughter, Ella. "Their shared priority remains co-parenting their daughter, Ella, and they are committed to putting her wellbeing first," the statement read. "They would greatly appreciate your understanding as they navigate this difficult time."
Sources close to the couple described the news as a "huge shock" to friends and family, as they were perceived as a strong unit. According to one insider, "They have been together for almost 30 years and while they love and care for each other, things have changed." The source added that James has been going through a difficult period, and the decision to separate came after extensive discussions over recent months.
Ola has reportedly removed her wedding and engagement rings, and the last social media post featuring both James and Ola dates back to April of the previous year. The couple welcomed Ella in February 2020, following a three-year fertility journey utilizing IVF.
Throughout their relationship, Ola and James have been candid about the challenges within their marriage. In 2017, James acknowledged that their life together was "not all smooth sailing" and that they had experienced ups and downs. Ola has previously spoken about the realities of marriage, stating that no relationship is perfect and that it requires continuous effort and support through difficult times.
In a more recent discussion in July 2023, the couple touched on their sex life, noting it had improved after they had both lost weight. They had previously humorously admitted that their physical changes had impacted their intimacy, with Ola joking that their "bellies got in their way" before they adopted a fitness plan.
The announcement comes three years after the couple had discussed renewing their wedding vows during a planned trip to Las Vegas for their 20th anniversary. They met at a dance competition in Blackpool in 1999 and became dance partners before their relationship turned romantic. James proposed two years later, and they married in October 2003. Both joined "Strictly Come Dancing" in 2006, with James departing in 2013 and Ola leaving in 2015.