Strictly Come Dancing professionals James and Ola Jordan have ended their marriage after 22 years, with their manager confirming a trial separation.
The couple, who wed in 2003 and have a daughter Ella, born in February 2020, have decided they can 'no longer make it work', according to a source.
Devastated by the split
The source said James, 48, and Ola, 43, are 'devastated' by the end of their relationship, which has been a shock to those close to them.
'It's been a huge shock to their friends and family because they always seemed like such a solid couple,' the insider told The Sun. 'But they know in the long run it is the right decision.'
'They have been together for almost 30 years, and while they love and care for each other, things have changed.'
Recent discussions and separation
It is believed 'things came to a head recently', with the pair having 'open and honest discussions' over the past few months before deciding to separate.
Ola has reportedly removed her wedding and engagement rings, and the couple's focus is now on Ella, with the source saying: 'Their focus now is on Ella and keeping things settled for her.'
Their manager, Vickie White, confirmed in a statement: 'It is with great sadness that I can confirm that James and Ola began a trial separation some time ago.'
'Their shared priority remains co-parenting their daughter, Ella, and they are committed to putting her well-being first. They would greatly appreciate your understanding as they navigate this difficult time.'
Life before the split
The couple had been living in Maidstone with their daughter, having downsized from their £2.5million Kent mansion to a five-bed home in 2023, which they were documenting renovations on for online content.
They were due to celebrate their 23rd wedding anniversary in October, but in recent months they have gradually disappeared from each other's Instagram feeds, prompting fan speculation.
The pair began dating in 1999 after meeting in Blackpool, where James, who started dancing at 13, was competing. Ola, who is Polish-born, recalled seeing James with his then-girlfriend: 'He was tall and very good-looking, with slicked-back black hair and piercing blue eyes. His dancing was amazing.'
She later received a call from James's girlfriend and dance partner, who suggested James visit Poland for a 'trial' with Ola. They became professional partners before turning romantic two years later.
James once described marriage as 'like a job sometimes' and something 'you've got to work at', while Ola echoed that it's 'not all beautiful', despite social media portrayals.
