Strictly's Ola and James Jordan Split After 22-Year Marriage

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional dancers Ola and James Jordan have ended their 22-year marriage, their manager has confirmed. The couple, who met at a dance competition in 1999 and married in 2003, began a trial separation "some time ago" and have now decided to part ways permanently.

A statement from their manager, Vickie White, was released on August 8, 2026. "It is with great sadness that I can confirm that James and Ola began a trial separation some time ago," the statement read. "Their shared priority remains coparenting their daughter, Ella, and they are committed to putting her wellbeing first. They would greatly appreciate your understanding as they navigate this difficult time."

The Jordans became household names after joining the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing as professional partners in 2006. James, 48, appeared on the show until 2013, while Ola, 43, competed until 2015. Their long-standing presence on the programme made them one of its most recognized couples, and their split has been noted as a significant moment for fans of the series.

The couple share a six-year-old daughter, Ella, who was born in February 2020 following a widely publicized three-year...