- Jay Blades charged with controlling behaviour against wife
- BBC drops his show, citing ongoing legal case
- Blades quits university role amid court proceedings
Jay Blades, the renowned host of BBC’s The Repair Shop, has been charged with engaging in controlling and coercive behavior towards his wife. The charge was brought against the presenter, who appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
In response to the charges, the BBC has removed a repeat episode of David & Jay’s Touring Toolshed—a program featuring Blades alongside actor David Jason—from its Friday broadcast schedule. A BBC spokesperson commented, “It would not be appropriate to comment on ongoing legal proceedings.”
In addition, Blades has resigned as chancellor of Buckinghamshire New University, effective immediately, according to a statement from the institution.
West Mercia Police initiated an investigation on May 3, following a report of alleged misconduct. The police issued a statement confirming that “Fifty-four-year-old Jason Blades of Claverley in Wolverhampton has been charged with controlling and coercive behavior.” Blades was granted bail after his appearance in Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court and is scheduled to appear at Worcester Crown Court on October 11.
Blades gained prominence as the host of The Repair Shop, a BBC series that began in 2017 and quickly gained popularity for its heartfelt restoration of cherished items. The show, which started in a daytime slot and later moved to primetime, won a National Television Award in 2023 and a Bafta for its royal special, featuring the future King bringing items to be repaired.
Blades last appeared on The Repair Shop on Wednesday. He has also hosted other shows including Money for Nothing, Jay Blades’ Home Fix, and Jay and Dom’s Home Fix. He was honored with an MBE in 2021. Filming for the new series of The Repair Shop has continued without Blades, as he had previously announced a break to “take stock” following the recent murder of his uncle.
