James Jordan, 48, has revealed he is experiencing a midlife crisis following the breakdown of his 22-year marriage to Ola Jordan. The couple, who were the longest-standing pair on "Strictly Come Dancing," announced their split earlier this month after a joint statement. Jordan stated that the past few years have been particularly challenging, leading him to feel like he is "struggling with life at the minute."
In a trailer for his new podcast, "Manopause" with Brendan Cole, Jordan described his current state. "I’m going through a midlife crisis. The last few years, for me, have been really tough. I’m not afraid to admit it. I put my hands up and say I’m struggling with life at the minute," he said. He cited various factors, including career decisions and a lack of purpose, as contributing to his difficulties.
The podcast, "Manopause," aims to address struggles faced by middle-aged men. Jordan expressed hope that it could help both himself and its listeners. "Manopause is for the middle-aged man that’s struggling a little bit and hopefully we’re going to be able to help ourselves and help you at the same time," he explained.
Ola, 43, and James, who share a six-year-old daughter named Ella, reportedly decided to end their relationship permanently after a trial separation. James has moved out of their family home in Kent and has been seen without his wedding band.
During a recent appearance on "This Morning," Jordan described his evenings as spent "sitting alone in a one-bed flat watching TV." He discussed his marriage breakdown with hosts Angela Scanlon and Craig Doyle, stating, "It's been a tough few years. I moved out a few months ago." He added that he finds it difficult to discuss the situation extensively due to his ex-wife's absence.
Brendan Cole has been checking in on Jordan daily, a support system Jordan described as a lifeline. "Knowing that people are out there you can talk to... otherwise I'm sitting in a one bedroom apartment on my own at night watching TV going 'what is going on?'" Jordan noted. He also acknowledged that some might view his need for space and his move out of the family home as selfish, but explained it as a necessary step to "find myself again."
The former professional dancer believes his new podcast is a valuable tool for processing his experiences and potentially inspiring others. "Women can watch and listen and hear what struggles men are going through and they might relate to that with their husband or their other half," he suggested.
In the joint statement released, the Jordans emphasized that their "absolute priority" is their daughter Ella. They stated their commitment to co-parenting her with the love, care, and stability she deserves. The statement also revealed that James's mental health had been suffering for some time, and he is taking time to focus on his well-being for himself and Ella. "Neither of us is in a good place right now. We’re both doing our best to navigate one of the hardest chapters of our lives," they conveyed, urging the public to remember the human emotions behind media reports. They concluded by expressing gratitude for the support they have received and noted that the future is uncertain, with plans to take things one day at a time.
James and Ola Jordan began dating in 1999 and married in 2003. They had been together for 26 years before announcing their separation.