Overview
- Their manager confirmed on Friday that James and Ola began a trial separation some time ago and asked the public for understanding as they navigate the situation.
- The couple published a joint statement on Saturday saying they are 'taking some time apart' and describing the decision as 'incredibly painful and emotional.'
- The statement says James moved out of the family home and that he has been struggling with his mental health and is taking time to get healthier.
- Both stressed their 'absolute priority' is co‑parenting their six‑year‑old daughter Ella and they asked for kindness, empathy and a little privacy.
- The split follows a long shared public history: the pair met as dance partners in 1999, married in 2003, rose to fame on Strictly Come Dancing and publicly documented fertility and relationship challenges in the past.