Former 'Strictly Come Dancing' professional James Jordan, at 48 years old, has openly acknowledged that he is currently navigating a midlife crisis. This revelation comes in the aftermath of his separation from his wife, Ola, after a significant 22-year marriage. The couple, who were once considered the longest-standing pair from the 'Strictly' series, had been together for a total of 26 years, beginning their relationship in 1999 and marrying in 2003. Their split was announced through a joint statement earlier this month, marking a poignant end to a long-term partnership.
Jordan has expressed that the past few years have been particularly challenging for him, leading to a period where he is 'struggling with life at the minute.' He elaborated on these difficulties in a promotional trailer for his new podcast, 'Manopause with Brendan Cole,' where he bravely admitted to his struggles without reservation. His challenges encompass various aspects of his life, including uncertainties in his career path and a sense of lacking purpose. The podcast aims to create a supportive platform for middle-aged men facing similar difficulties, with Jordan hoping that by sharing his own experiences, he and his co-host can not only help themselves but also provide assistance to others.
The separation saw James move out of their family home in Kent, where he and Ola raised their six-year-old daughter, Ella. He has since removed his wedding band, signifying the end of their marital bond. During a recent appearance on 'This Morning,' Jordan shared the personal impact of the split, describing his evenings as spent 'sitting alone in a one-bed flat watching TV.' He found it difficult to discuss the details of their marriage breakdown publicly, out of respect for Ola, who was not present. His friend and podcast co-host, Brendan Cole, has been a vital support system, checking in daily, which Jordan credits as a lifeline during these trying months. Jordan acknowledged reports that he initiated the separation to find personal space, recognizing that some might view his decision as selfish.
Jordan views his new podcast as a therapeutic tool, enabling him to engage in conversations about men's mental health and, in turn, inspire others to do the same. He believes the podcast can also offer valuable insights to women, helping them understand the struggles men may face in their relationships. In their joint statement, James candidly shared that his mental health had been deteriorating for some time, confessing that he had been struggling more than he had let on. The couple emphasized that their daughter, Ella, remains their utmost priority, and they are committed to co-parenting her with love, stability, and care. Both James and Ola admitted to being in a difficult place, navigating one of the hardest chapters of their lives, and requested privacy and understanding from the public, reminding everyone that behind every headline are real people with real emotions.