James Jordan denies affair claims and says speaking about split is a “lose-lose”

James Jordan has denied having an affair with dancer Polina Mayer, responding to allegations surrounding the end of his marriage to fellow former Strictly Come Dancing professional Ola Jordan. Speaking on Friday’s episode of Jeremy Vine’s television programme, he said the public account of events was inaccurate and that his relationship with Mayer grew closer only after he moved out of the family home. Jordan said he had previously avoided discussing the separation because he felt it would be unfair to talk about their marriage without Ola present. When host Jeremy Vine raised the affair reports, Jordan said he did not know whether some of the claims were true, but maintained that there had been no affair. Fellow guest and dancer Brendan Cole remarked that an affair would be difficult if Jordan had already moved out. “I feel like it’s a lose-lose,” Jordan said, explaining that silence could make him appear guilty, while speaking out could make him look defensive. He added that he planned to issue a statement at some point, but felt the programme did not offer enough time to explain the full situation. Ola Jordan had recently spoken publicly about the breakdown of the couple’s relationship, saying she was devastated and that her worst fears had been confirmed. The pair, who married in 2003, separated in June after 22 years together and are co-parenting their six-year-old daughter, Ella. Reports have alleged that Jordan became involved with Mayer, a Russian ballroom dancer, while on tour. According to the account, Ola was contacted by Mayer’s husband, dancer Jamie Cutler, who raised the infidelity claim. Jordan’s representative has said the relationship with Mayer did not begin before his separation from Ola. The allegations remain disputed, and Jordan’s appearance offered his clearest public response so far.