Jay Blades, the BBC presenter renowned for his role in the popular show The Repair Shop, has entered a not guilty plea regarding charges of controlling or coercive behavior towards his estranged wife, Lisa-Marie Zbozen. The charges, filed by police last month, come amid the couple’s recent separation, which Ms. Zbozen publicly announced on Instagram on May 2.
During a brief court appearance before Judge James Burbidge KC at Worcester Crown Court on Friday, Mr. Blades, 54, pleaded not guilty. The allegations pertain to incidents occurring between January 1, 2023, and September 12, 2024, asserting that his actions led Ms. Zbozen “to fear, on at least two occasions, that violence will be used against her.”
The judge denied a request for part of the proceedings to be held in private and addressed Mr. Blades regarding his situation. “You have denied responsibility for the crime alleged against you, and the prosecution propose to try you,” he stated. Additionally, he lifted a bail condition requiring Mr. Blades to wear an electronic tag, which had not yet been fitted, citing “failings” by the company responsible for the tag.
The court listed Mr. Blades’ address as Wightwick in Wolverhampton, although he is originally from Shropshire. He is scheduled to face trial on May 6 next year.
Dressed in a dark suit and tie, Mr. Blades confirmed his identity to the clerk and entered his plea during the 12-minute hearing. He left the court without making any further comments.
