Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Ola Jordan has shared her feelings following her separation from husband James Jordan, describing the period as one of her ‘darkest days’ and an ‘incredibly tough’ summer. The couple, who were together for 26 years and married for 22, confirmed their split earlier this month, with James having moved out of their family home some time ago. Ola, 43, has opened up about the profound changes in her life, finding solace and strength in her six-year-old daughter, Ella.
Ola Jordan’s Emotional Reflection on Marriage Separation
The dancer candidly expressed the emotional toll the separation has taken, admitting on social media that her heart has felt heavier than she ever imagined. ‘Life has changed in ways I never expected, and some days have been incredibly tough,’ she wrote. This personal reflection comes just weeks after the pair announced they were taking time apart to navigate what they termed ‘very difficult personal challenges.’
Despite the upheaval, Ola has focused on her daughter, Ella, who was born in February 2020 via IVF after a three-year fertility journey. ‘But through all of the uncertainty, one thing has remained constant, my beautiful girl Ella,’ Ola shared. ‘Spending these summer holidays with my baby girl, making memories, having cuddles, laughing until our tummies hurt and simply enjoying every precious moment together has been my greatest comfort.’ She added that Ella has been her ‘little ray of sunshine through some of my darkest days,’ even if her daughter doesn’t fully grasp the situation yet.
Ola acknowledged that her summer did not unfold as she had planned but emphasized her commitment to focusing on what truly matters. ‘This summer hasn’t been the one I imagined, but I’m choosing to focus on what truly matters – her, our memories, and all the love between us,’ she stated. She also extended her gratitude to her supporters, thanking those who have reached out with messages of kindness and support. ‘And to everyone who has sent me messages, checked in on me, shown me kindness or simply reminded me that I’m not alone. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your love and support have meant more to me than you will ever know,’ she added.
The Journey to Separation: A Joint Statement
Rumours of the couple’s separation began circulating earlier this month, following observations by fans that Ola and James were appearing less frequently on each other’s social media. Their manager later confirmed a trial separation, leading the dancers to issue a joint statement addressing the difficult decision. ‘At the moment we’re taking some time apart as we work through very difficult personal challenges. [James] moved out of the family home some time ago,’ the statement read. ‘This has been an incredibly painful and emotional journey for us both and it certainly wasn’t an easy decision. Our absolute priority, now and always, is our beautiful daughter Ella.’
James Jordan’s Perspective on Life After Separation
James Jordan, 48, has also spoken about the significant changes in his daily life since moving out of the family home. Appearing on television earlier this month, he confirmed that the couple had faced a challenging few years leading up to his departure several months prior. ‘It’s been a tough few years. I moved out a few months ago, and it has been really tough,’ he admitted.
Adjusting to living alone after over two decades of marriage has presented its own set of difficulties for James. He described the stark reality of his new living situation: ‘I’m now sitting in a one bedroom apartment on my own, at night, watching TV, going, “what is going on?”.’ He expressed a personal need for this period of adjustment, stating, ‘But I just feel I need that time to find myself again.’
A Look Back at Ola and James Jordan’s Relationship
Ola and James Jordan first met through competitive dancing, embarking on their romantic relationship in 1999. They exchanged vows four years later, in 2003. Their journey together saw them become household names when they joined the cast of Strictly Come Dancing in 2006, quickly establishing themselves as one of the show’s most recognizable professional couples.
During their time on the popular BBC show, Ola achieved a significant victory, winning the Glitterball Trophy with presenter Chris Hollins in 2009. She continued to be a part of the show until 2015. James, meanwhile, partnered with various celebrities, including Alex Jones, Denise Van Outen, and Pamela Stephenson, before departing the series in 2013. Their shared history on the dance floor and subsequent family life have made their separation a point of public interest.
Coping and Moving Forward
As Ola navigates this new chapter, her focus remains firmly on her daughter, Ella. The shared experiences and memories created during the summer holidays with Ella have provided a vital source of comfort and stability. While the separation marks the end of a significant chapter in their lives, both Ola and James are prioritizing their roles as parents as they adjust to their individual paths.
