Strictly Come Dancing professional Neil Jones has shared a heartbreaking family update. The dancer has been part of the Strictly family since 2016, initially starring in many memorable pro routines and bringing fun and expertise to spin-off show It Takes Two.
In a moving message uploaded to Instagram yesterday, November 14, Neil announced the death of his dad. A series of black and white images of his dad were shared by the dancer; he captioned the post: “Yesterday I said goodbye to my dad for the final time.
“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. I know he would be smiling looking down with a pint in his hand. Thank you, Wendy, and everyone for making it such a special day. RIP DAD.”
Fellow Strictly professionals and fans of the dancer shared messages of love and support. Dancer Nikita Kuzmin wrote: “Sending you so much love, Neil,” and Katya Jones commented, “Rest in peace, David.”
Another message came from James Jordan, who wrote: “Mate. I’m so so sorry for your loss – sending love” and former Strictly winner Ellie Leach posted, “Sending lots of love, Neil.”
Reigning Strictly champion, Dianne Buswell, posted: “Jonsey sending you so much love” and former Strictly star Ola Jordan wrote “So sorry to hear this, Neil. Sending you lots of love.”
On the BBC dance show, Neil was first partnered with a celebrity in 2019, taking to the dance floor with footballer Alex Scott. The pair made it all the way to the quarter-final before being voted out of the competition in our Musicals Week extravaganza.
He’s remained a favourite among the Strictly family ever since, partnering with actor Nina Wadia in 2021 and returning as part of the pro line-up for 2022 and 2023. Last year, he returned to the dance floor with partner Toyah Willcox.
Despite being a part of Strictly, not all dancers are guaranteed to compete; instead, they’re used for the grand Sunday night routines during the results show.
Neil is without a partner in the current series, but he still appears on the show every Saturday night. He also recently joined the team at BBC’s Morning Live.