James and Ola Jordan, a long-standing couple from the BBC's 'Strictly Come Dancing,' have announced their separation after 22 years together. The news follows reports that the couple had been living apart for several months.
In a joint statement released on Friday, the Jordans confirmed they were "taking some time apart as we work through very difficult personal challenges." They stated that James moved out of their family home "some time ago" and described the period as "an incredibly painful and emotional journey."
Sources close to the couple suggest that James Jordan initiated the separation, expressing a need for space. He has reportedly been living in a flat in Kent. James has publicly shared that he has been struggling with his mental health, stating in his personal remarks within the joint statement, "my mental health hasn’t been in a good place for quite some time. I’ve been struggling more than I’ve let people see and I’m taking the time I need to focus on getting myself into a healthier place, both for myself and for Ella."
The couple emphasized that their "absolute priority" is their six-year-old daughter, Ella, and they are committed to co-parenting her with "all the love, care and stability she deserves." They acknowledged that "neither of us is in a good place right now" and are asking for understanding as they navigate this difficult time.
James and Ola Jordan first met at a dance competition in Blackpool in 1999 and married in October 2003. They became professional partners on 'Strictly Come Dancing' in 2006, with James departing the show in 2013 and Ola in 2015. They welcomed their daughter Ella in February 2020 after a three-year fertility battle.
James Jordan has previously spoken about dealing with anxiety following the death of his father in 2021, crediting his family, including his wife, for helping him through that period. The couple expressed gratitude for the support they have received over the years and requested that the public remember the human emotions involved in public breakups.