Former professional dancer Ola Jordan is returning to the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing franchise through its companion program, It Takes Two, more than a decade after leaving the main competition. The announcement, revealed at the end of Thursday’s episode, marks her first official return to the production since her departure in 2015.
The program’s presenters confirmed that the 44-year-old would join the Friday panel during Week 3 of the spin-off show. She will appear alongside fellow Strictly alumni Sarah Hadland and Dr Ranj, while Graeme, Tabby, and Delta are also scheduled to feature in the episode.
A Decade Away From the Ballroom
Ola left Strictly Come Dancing in 2015 after serving as a professional dancer for 10 years. During her tenure on the hit BBC show, she secured one of her career highlights in 2009 by winning the coveted Glitterball trophy alongside sports reporter Chris Hollins.
Her return to the Strictly ecosystem comes during a period of significant personal transition. In August, Ola and her fellow professional dancer husband, James Jordan-who were together for 26 years and married for 22-announced their separation through a joint statement on Instagram. The couple stated they were taking time apart to work through difficult personal challenges while maintaining a shared priority of raising their six-year-old daughter, Ella.
Rebuilding Connections and Future Prospects
Insiders close to the production noted that the invitation has been met with great enthusiasm from Ola, who is flattered to reengage with the team that launched her television career. Meanwhile, James Jordan-who left the show in 2013 and has since been vocal about the production through podcasts and media commentary-publicly expressed support for his estranged wife’s return, affirming that she will excel in any capacity on the program.
Ola’s appearance on It Takes Two airs on Friday, bringing her back to the screens and stages where she built her reputation as one of the BBC show’s most enduring professional dancers.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Ola Jordan return to Strictly Come Dancing?
Ola Jordan returns to the Strictly franchise during Week 3 of the companion show It Takes Two, appearing on the Friday panel 11 years after she left the main competition.
Why did Ola Jordan leave Strictly originally?
Ola left the main show as a professional dancer in 2015 after a 10-year run, following a tenure that included winning the 2009 series with celebrity partner Chris Hollins.
Who else is appearing on the It Takes Two panel with Ola?
Ola will appear alongside fellow Strictly alumni Sarah Hadland and Dr Ranj, along with scheduled appearances from Graeme, Tabby, and Delta.
What are Ola Jordan’s career highlights from the show?
Her biggest achievement on the program was winning the seventh series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2009 alongside sports broadcaster Chris Hollins.
