Strictly Come Dancing professional Neil Jones displayed immense courage and professionalism by appearing on the BBC's Children In Need telethon on Friday, merely a day after announcing the tragic passing of his beloved father, David.
A Brave Face for a Vital Cause
The 43-year-old dancer took to the stage alongside his fellow Strictly performers for a live workout segment. He was joined by host Mel Giedroyc and fitness guru Joe Wicks for the energetic routine. Despite his profound personal grief, Neil smiled for the cameras and fully participated, building up a sweat with press-ups and sit-ups to raise money for the important cause.
He was dressed in his signature sparkly outfit from the BBC dance competition, accessorising with a green sweatband and colourful rainbow leg warmers. His commitment to the charity event highlighted his dedication, even during a period of immense personal sorrow.
A Heartfelt Tribute to His Father
The appearance came just after Neil took to Instagram on Thursday evening to share the sad news with his followers. He announced that his father had sadly passed away and that the family had held his funeral.
In his emotional post, Neil shared several touching black-and-white photographs of his father. He wrote a moving caption, stating, 'Yesterday I said goodbye to my Dad for the final time.' He expressed that hearing stories from family and friends made him realise he had more to learn about his father, adding, 'I know he would be smiling looking down with a pint in his hand.'
He concluded by thanking his loved ones, specifically mentioning a woman named Wendy, for making the funeral a 'special day'.
An Outpouring of Support
Following his announcement, Neil was inundated with messages of condolence and support from his Strictly Come Dancing colleagues and the wider entertainment community.
- Karen Hauer wrote: 'Sending all our love Neil.'
- Fleur East from It Takes Two commented: 'Sending you love Neil! Such a difficult thing to go through. Big hugs.'
- His ex-wife Katya Jones simply posted: 'Rest in peace David.'
- Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse added: 'So sorry Neil.'
This wave of support underscores the close-knit nature of the Strictly family and the high regard in which Neil is held.
Life in Limbo on a Boat
In a separate but ongoing life update, Neil and his fiancée, Love Island star Chyna Mills, have recently revealed their unusual living situation. The couple, who are parents to a young daughter named Havana, are currently residing on a boat.
This temporary arrangement stems from difficulties in finding a permanent home together. They had both sold their previous properties with the intention of purchasing a new one, but the search has proven challenging. In an Instagram Q&A, Chyna described the house-hunting process as 'hell,' explaining they were keen to avoid the complications of property chains.
Neil had purchased the boat before their relationship began, and it has now become a convenient, albeit unplanned, temporary home. Chyna confirmed that the original plan was for the boat to be a holiday home or an Airbnb rental, not their primary residence, stating, 'The plan was never to live on the boat.' The couple remains hopeful they will find a suitable property soon.
