Professional dancers Ola and James Jordan were favorites on the British dance competition “Strictly Come Dancing,” but reports claiming the couple had broken up left fans upset. Now, the couple has broken their silence, sharing their decision to split after 26 years together and 22 years of marriage.
Ola & James Jordan Announce Their Split
In a statement shared on Instagram on Saturday, August 8, James penned a heartbreaking message about their relationship. “After 26 years together, this is something we never imagined we would be sharing,” the message began. “Following recent reports in the press about our relationship and after receiving messages asking if everything is okay, we feel it’s important to speak directly rather than let speculation or hearsay tell our story.”
The statement continues, “We have always tried to be open and honest with the people who have supported us over the years, and we feel it’s only right that this update comes from us. At the moment we’re taking some time apart as we work through very difficult personal challenges. (James) moved out of the family home some time ago. This has been an incredibly painful and emotional journey for us both, and it certainly wasn’t an easy decision.”
Their Priority Remains Their Beautiful Daughter
The couple reminded fans that during this time their priority was their “beautiful daughter Ella” and that they were committed to co-parenting her with love and stability. “Speaking personally (James), my mental health hasn’t been in a good place for quite some time,” he shared. “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.”
He continued, “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, and we ask that people remember there are real people and real emotions behind every headline, every comment and every post. We don’t know exactly what the future holds. For now, we’re taking things one day at a time, doing what we both believe is best for ourselves. Our family and most importantly….. Ella.”
The lengthy message concluded with thanks to their fans for their love and support, and a request for privacy during this heartbreaking and undeniably challenging time.
Fans Show Their Support for Ola & James Jordan
The public first fell in love with Ola and James when they competed on BBC’s “Strictly Come Dancing” in 2006, BBC reports. James left the show in 2013, and Ola left in 2015.
Fans flooded their statement with loving and supportive messages. “Huge love to you both. Stay strong and hope calmer days ahead for you all,” a comment reads. “This is just awful. No one should have to share the most intimate details of their relationships online just to stop speculation and get peace. Sending so much love,” another person wrote.
“Sending love to all of you guys. We love you,” a third comment reads.
