Strictly Come Dancing star Katya Jones has bravely broken her silence, offering a raw and honest account of the personal turmoil that ultimately ended her marriage to fellow professional dancer Neil Jones.
In a candid new interview, the 34-year-old choreographer pinpointed a debilitating period of poor mental health as the catalyst for their 2022 separation, explaining that she was in no state to be a partner to anyone at the time.
'I wasn't in a place to be in a relationship,' Katya confessed, highlighting the intense pressure and emotional strain that contributed to her crisis. The couple, who had been married for six years after meeting through the dance world, announced their split publicly, but Katya has now revealed the heartbreaking truth behind the headlines.
The Silent Struggle Behind the Sequins
While the pair presented a united and glamorous front on the BBC's flagship show, Katya was fighting a silent battle off-camera. She described feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained, a state that made sustaining a marriage an impossibility.
The decision to part ways, while immensely difficult, was framed as a necessary step for her personal well-being. There is reportedly no bad blood between the exes, who continue to work together professionally on the Strictly tour, prioritising a respectful and supportive dynamic for the sake of their careers and friendship.
Life After Splits and Moving Forward
Since the divorce, both dancers have moved on romantically. Katya is now in a relationship with Italian comedian Stefano Catelli, while Neil has found love with Love Island star Chyna Mills, with whom he recently welcomed a baby daughter.
Katya's decision to speak out is a powerful move aimed at destigmatising conversations around mental health, particularly in the high-pressure environment of entertainment. Her story serves as a reminder that behind the glittering facade of celebrity, real and challenging personal struggles often take place.
