After more than two decades together, the shock news has sent waves through the Strictly world, with fans desperate to know what could possibly have driven the long-time couple apart

Strictly stars Ola and James Jordan split after 22 years of marriage

The pair intend to co-parent their daughter.

Former Strictly Come Dancing stars James and Ola Jordan have split after 22 years of marriage, with their manager confirming that they are going through a trial separation.

The pair first started dating in 1999, and they tied the knot in October 2003. They welcomed their daughter Ella in 2020 through IVF after years of trying.

But now James, 48, and Ola, 43, are no longer together, although they are still planning on raising Ella together.

In a statement issued to Digital Spy, the duo’s manager Vikie White said: “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.

“They would greatly appreciate your understanding as they navigate this difficult time.”

Back in 2023, they talked about how they had lost the “passion” in their marriage, with Ola stating: “The last thing you want to do after you’ve stuffed yourself with crisps and chocolate every evening is go to bed and have sex.”

However, they got back into dancing to lose weight and tone up, and admitting that they fancied each other more once they were back in shape.

David M. Benett//Getty Images

Last year, Ola spoke about how the couple tried for a second child, but it didn’t go to plan.

“Unfortunately, we went in because with IVF you go in at eight weeks to see if there’s a heartbeat, and we went in and there was no heartbeat,” she said. “It was very heartbreaking for us. Devastating.

“I think I’m OK to talk about it now, but if you asked me last year about it, I probably wouldn’t be able to sit here and talk about it so openly.”

Organisations including Sands and Tommy’s are able to offer help and support to anyone affected by baby loss.