Strictly Come Dancing star Katya Jones has bravely spoken out about the immense personal turmoil she endured following her separation from ex-husband and fellow professional dancer Neil Jones, labelling it the 'worst year' of her life.
In a remarkably candid and emotional interview, the Latin dance champion, 34, peeled back the glittering facade of the showbiz world to reveal the raw heartache and intense public scrutiny that dominated her life after their 2022 split. The couple, once dubbed Strictly's golden couple, had been married for six years.
The Weight of Public Scrutiny
'It was brutal,' Katya confessed, reflecting on the period. The breakdown of their marriage played out under the harsh glare of the public eye, amplifying her pain. 'Everything was happening, and everyone was watching and had an opinion on it.'
She described the experience as an emotional rollercoaster, compounded by the pressure of maintaining a brave face for her career and the millions of Strictly viewers. The constant media attention and speculation made the healing process infinitely more challenging.
Finding Solace in Dance and New Beginnings
Despite the profound sadness, Katya credits her passion for dance as a crucial lifeline during her darkest days. Throwing herself into her work on Strictly provided a necessary escape and a reminder of the joy that still existed in her life.
The dancer has since found happiness again with her new partner, electrician William Abbotts. She confirmed their relationship went public in December 2023, signalling a new, positive chapter focused on peace and authenticity, far removed from the showbiz bubble.
Her journey from the depths of despair to a place of renewed happiness stands as a powerful testament to her resilience in overcoming one of life's most public and painful challenges.
