James Jordan and his wife Ola, who were the longest-standing couple on Strictly Come Dancing, have announced their separation after 22 years together. The announcement follows a trial separation that occurred some time ago.
Sources close to the couple indicate that James decided to move out of their five-bedroom family home, stating he needed space. He has reportedly been living in a flat in Kent. James shared in a statement that he has been "struggling with his mental health" and is focusing on "getting myself into a better place."
The couple, who married in 2003 and share a six-year-old daughter, Ella, released a joint statement acknowledging the difficulty of their decision. They emphasized that their "absolute priority" is their daughter and they are committed to co-parenting her with the love and stability she deserves.
"At the moment we’re taking some time apart as we work through very difficult personal challenges," the statement read. "This has been an incredibly painful and emotional journey for us both and it certainly wasn’t an easy decision."
James also spoke personally about his mental health, noting it has not been in a good place for some time and that he has been struggling more than he has let on. He is taking time to focus on his well-being for himself and for Ella.
The couple first met at a dance competition in Blackpool in 1999, developing a professional relationship that turned romantic. James proposed two years later, and they married in October 2003. They welcomed Ella in February 2020 after a three-year fertility battle.
Both James and Ola achieved fame as professional dancers on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing. James departed the show after season 11 in 2013, while Ola left at the end of series 13 in 2015. They have asked for privacy and understanding as they navigate this challenging period, reminding the public that real people and emotions are involved behind the headlines.