SAD NEWS: Strictly star flooded with support after receiving Tragic D3ATH Announcement

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Neil Jones has made the heartbreaking announcement that his dad has di3d (Image: BBC)

Neil Jones has announced that his father has di3d. The Strictly Come Dancing professional was flooded with supportive messages as he issued a heartbreaking statement. Taking to Instagram, the father of one shared multiple black and white images of his dad. He added the caption: “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.”

 

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Many of his fellow Strictly colleagues have sent him plenty of messages of support. Amy Dowden typed: “Love you my friend,” as pro dancer Nancy Xu said: “Sending you lots of love.” Strictly winner Ellie Leach commented: “Sending lots of love Neil.”

Karen Hauer also chimed in: “Sending all our love Neil,” as former Strictly pro Ola Jordan said: “So sorry to hear this Neil. Sending you lots of love xxx.”

Gorka Marquez said: “Sending love Neil,” whilst Dianne Buswell also commented: “Jonsey sending you so much love.”

Michelle Visage additionally sent a message and said: “So sorry for your loss”, as Nikita Kanda also echoed: “Sending you lots of love so sorry for your loss.”

Contestant Vicky Pattison said: “Sending you so much love babe.” One of Neil’s followers left a message saying: “My condolences to you and your family, Neil.”

Neil has been at the centre of the Strictly Come Dancing family for ten years as he made his return for 2025. Despite his huge popularity with fans, he has only been paired with three partners.

Back in 2019, he danced with BBC presenter Alex Scott and finished in fifth place. In 2021, he was paired with Nina Wadia, but they were the first couple to be eliminated.

Last year, Neil was partnered with Tonya Willcox, and they were eliminated in week three. This year, he has been listed as a professional dancer, but does not have a celebrity partner.