Strictly Come Dancing star Neil Jones has moved fans with a heartbreaking announcement, revealing the death of his beloved father.
An Emotional Farewell
The 43-year-old professional dancer, a mainstay on the hit BBC One show since 2016, shared the sad news on social media alongside a series of touching black and white photographs.
Neil penned an emotional tribute, writing: "Yesterday I said goodbye to my Dad for the final time." He continued, revealing a poignant realisation: "I thought I knew my dad but yesterday I realised I didn’t after hearing so many lovely & funny stories from family and his closest friends."
He concluded his post with the heartfelt sentiment that his father "would be smiling looking down with a pint in his hand," before adding, "Thank you Wendy and everyone for making it such a special day. RIP DAD."
Outpouring of Support from Strictly Family
The dancer was swiftly flooded with messages of comfort and solidarity from his colleagues in the Strictly Come Dancing family.
Gorka Marquez responded simply: "Sending love Neil." Fellow pro Amy Dowden added: "Love you my friend," while Nancy Xu wrote: "Sending you lots of love."
Dianne Buswell shared her support, saying: "Jonsey sending you so much love." Former Strictly professional Ola Jordan and her husband James both sent their condolences, with James adding: "Mate, I’m so so sorry for your loss - sending love."
2023 Strictly winner Ellie Leach and Good Morning Britain's Ranvir Singh also joined the chorus of support for the grieving dancer.
Neil Jones's Strictly Journey
Neil Jones has been a core part of Strictly Come Dancing for nearly a decade, having joined the show alongside his then-wife, fellow professional Katya Jones.
His journey with celebrity partners includes:
- In 2019, he danced with former footballer and presenter Alex Scott, achieving a respectable fifth place.
- In 2021, he was paired with EastEnders star Nina Wadia, but they were the first couple to be eliminated that season.
- In 2024, he partnered with Toyah Wilcox, with the couple leaving the competition in week three.
While he has returned as a professional dancer for the current series, Neil does not have a celebrity partner this year.
