Former Strictly Come Dancing professionals James and Ola Jordan were spotted enjoying a sweet family outing with their five-year-old daughter, Ella, this weekend. The couple attended The Paddington Bear Experience at London County Hall on Sunday, putting on a loving display as they walked the distinctive orange carpet.
A Family Affair in London
The Jordan family looked every bit the happy unit as they enjoyed the London-based attraction. Ola Jordan, 43, styled herself in a long-sleeved navy top paired with high-waisted skinny jeans and chunky boots. Her husband, James Jordan, 47, complemented her look with a grey fitted sweater, navy slim jeans, and brown boots. Their daughter Ella, whom they welcomed via IVF in 2020, completed the picture.
This charming family moment came just hours after James, never one to shy away from controversy, launched a blistering critique on the very show that made him famous.
Calling for a 'Strictly' Revolution
In an exclusive interview with The Mail on Sunday, James Jordan did not hold back his feelings about the current state of Strictly Come Dancing. The former professional, who appeared on the show between 2006 and 2013, demanded a complete overhaul.
James called for half of the professional dancers to be axed and for a refresh of the judging panel, which he claims has become 'too woke'. He stated, 'Now Tess and Claudia are leaving, it is time for a big shake-up. Let's get rid of some of the judges, 50% of the pros, and bring back a brand new Strictly.'
He was quick to praise the behind-the-scenes crew, describing the costume, hair, makeup, and props departments as 'the nuts and bolts of the show' and 'the best in the business'. However, he firmly believes that 'everyone else' is replaceable.
Judges in the Firing Line
James expressed particular disappointment with the judges' softened critiques, singling out long-standing judge Craig Revel Horwood for losing his trademark harshness. 'I feel he has lost his harshness,' James remarked. 'I just think everything finishes with a positive, and there's nothing wrong with saying someone isn't good at dancing if they aren't a dancer.'
He elaborated on his view that the show has lost its competitive edge, saying, 'It is a dance competition. They are there to judge the dancing, and I just feel it has become too woke for me.' He advocates for a return to 'the old days' with more constructive, honest criticism, akin to what former head judge Len Goodman provided.
While he laughed and admitted he had specific judges in mind for replacement, he chose to keep those names to himself.
A Potential Return to the Ballroom?
Speaking on behalf of Freebets.com, where he works as an entertainment betting expert, James also shared his thoughts on the upcoming presenter shake-up. He suggested that Anton Du Beke would be a great replacement for the departing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, and even floated the idea of a role for himself.
'Maybe get him presenting and get me on the panel, that would be a good swap,' he proposed. He emphasised that the BBC must choose the 'best person for the job' and avoid a 'box-ticking exercise'.
James ruled out a return to the dance floor, citing his age, but confirmed he would 'happily return as a judge'. He believes his honest approach would be better suited to the judging panel, where the focus should be on critiquing the dance itself.
The Sunday Results Show Leak Dilemma
Elsewhere in the Strictly universe, bosses are grappling with the persistent issue of the 'Strictly Mole', who leaks the results of the pre-recorded Sunday show online within hours of the Saturday filming. This has put pressure on the producers to consider airing the results live on Saturday night.
Sharing his take, James acknowledged the logistical challenges, noting that the main show is 'sometimes two hours long with only 20 minutes of dancing'. He understood the producers' desire for a slick, separate results show but conceded, 'they aren't going to stop the moles I suppose.'
The Jordan family's delightful day out at The Paddington Bear Experience provided a stark contrast to James's fiery opinions, showcasing a man who is both a devoted family man and a passionate critic of the show he once helped define.
