Strictly curse strikes again: James and Ola Jordan split after 22 years
James and Ola Jordan, once hailed as the couple who beat the notorious 'Strictly curse', have announced their separation after 22 years of marriage. The news has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world and reignited debate about the pressures of fame on traditional family values.
How did the couple describe their marriage before the split?
In candid interviews over the years, the couple openly discussed the strains on their relationship. James, known for his outspoken nature, once described marriage as 'like a job', requiring constant effort. Speaking to HELLO! magazine, he said: 'We've got a beautiful daughter and as my dad always used to say, and it's true, 'Marriage can be like a job sometimes, you've got to work at it'.'
He added a warning that resonates with many traditionalists: 'I feel sometimes people are quick to give up on something and think the grass is always greener on the other side.'
What role did the 'Strictly curse' play?
The couple had long been held up as proof that the so-called 'Strictly curse' could be resisted. But James admitted the temptations were real. He told the magazine: 'If I wasn't with Ola, I'd have been worse than Giovanni Pernice!'
He explained the intense environment of the show: 'It's normal in our world but not for everyone else and you're so close to each other, dancing sexy, and there's nice music and you're training with each other for eight hours a day, so if there is a little bit of chemistry, something's going to happen.'
How did personal tragedy and health struggles affect the marriage?
The couple faced significant challenges outside the dance floor. James admitted to entering a 'dark place' after his father died from an incurable brain tumour in 2021. Meanwhile, Ola's IVF battles to have their daughter Ella led to comfort eating and a dramatic weight gain.
In 2022, they underwent a major lifestyle change, dropping 6.5 stone between them. But the damage to their intimacy was clear. Ola told The Sun: 'The sex life is definitely different, if not worse, because we are so fat and don't want to move after a bag of crisps and a Chinese. The bellies get in the way of us when it comes to sex.'
James added: 'Sex is definitely not better with the mum and dad bods. I can't throw her about any more like I am used to doing.'
What led to the final split?
Fans grew suspicious in recent weeks when the couple stopped appearing on each other's social media and were pictured on solo parent days out with their daughter. Their manager, Vickie White, confirmed the news: '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 wellbeing first.'
FAQ: What does this mean for the Strictly legacy?
Is the 'Strictly curse' real?
The term has been used for years to describe the breakdown of relationships among contestants and professional dancers on the show. The Jordans were one of the few long-term couples to survive the intense environment, but even they have now succumbed.
What are the couple's future plans?
Both remain committed to co-parenting their daughter Ella. No further details about legal proceedings or individual careers have been released.
How does this affect public perception of the show?
The split reinforces concerns about the impact of celebrity culture on traditional marriage. The Jordans' story serves as a cautionary tale about the pressures of fame, personal tragedy, and the importance of family values.