Former Strictly Come Dancing professional James Jordan has opened up about the reason behind his 2013 exit from the BBC dance competition. He claimed that his willingness to speak his mind ultimately worked against him.
Jordan, who spent seven years as a professional dancer on Strictly, discussed his time on the show alongside fellow former professional Brendan Cole on their Manopause podcast. Both dancers said their outspoken personalities put them at odds with people behind the BBC programme.
While Jordan acknowledged that Strictly played a major role in his career, he also recalled moments when he openly challenged the show’s creative direction and defended the professional dancers.
Why Did James Jordan Leave Strictly Come Dancing?
James Jordan left Strictly Come Dancing in 2013 after seven years on the show. Speaking about his departure, he suggested that his outspoken nature was one of the reasons he was eventually asked to leave.
“I eventually got asked to leave the show because I was maybe too outspoken and I was pointing things out that they didn’t want to be pointed out. But I want the best for the show.”
Jordan’s comments were made while reflecting on how Strictly had changed during his time on the programme.
He said he had always been willing to defend the professional dancers and speak openly when he disagreed with decisions being made behind the scenes.
What Did James Jordan Say About Strictly’s Group Dances?
One particular group dance appears to have stayed with Jordan. The former professional said Strictly had originally been centred around traditional ballroom and Latin dancing. But, according to him, the show’s format gradually became more focused on elaborate group performances and entertainment.
“We used to do beautiful, authentic ballroom and Latin dancing – which is essentially what made Strictly what it is today.” He then recalled being involved in a group dance set to YMCA. “And then all of a sudden, I’m doing group dances to YMCA.”
Jordan said a producer subsequently asked him what he thought of the routine. “The producer came up to me and said, ‘What do you think of the group dance? I think it’s really good.’”
His response was characteristically blunt as he mentioned, “I said, ‘I think it’s s***, and it’s an insult to me and my profession.’” He then added, “Don’t ask for my opinion unless you want it.”
Did James Jordan’s Outspoken Views Cost Him His Strictly Job?
Jordan believes they may have. “I was always very outspoken when I was on Strictly. I was always sticking up for the professional dancers.”
He suggested that his willingness to challenge decisions may have made his relationship with the show’s bosses increasingly difficult. According to him, “I eventually got asked to leave the show because I was maybe too outspoken and I was pointing things out that they didn’t want to be pointed out.”
However, Jordan stressed that his criticism came from wanting the programme to succeed. He continued, “But I want the best for the show.”
What Did James Jordan Say About His Time On Strictly?
Despite his criticism, Jordan made clear that he does not dismiss the impact Strictly had on his life and career. He and Cole have launched Manopause, where they discuss their experiences and speak candidly about issues affecting men in midlife. During their discussion about Strictly, Jordan acknowledged that the show gave both dancers an important platform.
