Jay Blades, the renowned television presenter and furniture restorer, is facing significant professional repercussions following recent legal troubles. The broadcaster's Channel 5 program, "Jay Blades: The West End Through Time," has been removed from the network's streaming platform, My5, as of September 14, 2024.
This action comes in the wake of Blades' appearance at Kidderminster magistrates' court on September 13, 2024, where he was charged with alleged controlling or coercive behavior towards his estranged wife, Lisa Zbozen. The couple had married in November 2022 at a beachfront villa in Barbados, an island country in the Caribbean region of North America.
The BBC has also taken steps to adjust its programming, removing a scheduled repeat of "David & Jay's Touring Toolshed," a show featuring Blades alongside renowned British actor Sir David Jason. However, episodes of Blades' flagship show, "The Repair Shop," and other programs he presents remained available on BBC iPlayer as of September 14, 2024.
"The Repair Shop," a popular BBC television show featuring expert craftspeople restoring antiques and family heirlooms, last aired on September 11, 2024. The program has garnered significant acclaim, winning the award for best daytime show at the National Television Awards last year.
In light of the ongoing legal proceedings, Buckinghamshire New University announced that Blades has resigned from his role as chancellor with immediate effect. The university, which gained its status in 2007, had previously celebrated Blades' achievements, including his appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to craft in 2022.
The legal case against Blades is being pursued by West Mercia Police, the territorial force responsible for policing Herefordshire, Shropshire, and Worcestershire in England. It's worth noting that controlling or coercive behavior became a criminal offense in England and Wales in 2015, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations.
"We can confirm that Jay Blades has resigned from his role as chancellor with immediate effect. We thank him for his contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors."
Blades is scheduled to appear next at Worcester Crown Court on October 11, 2024. As the legal process unfolds, both the BBC and Channel 5 are reportedly reviewing their scheduling decisions regarding Blades' shows.
The situation serves as a reminder of the potential impact legal troubles can have on public figures' careers, particularly in the entertainment industry. As the case progresses, viewers and fans of Blades' work will be watching closely to see how broadcasters and associated institutions respond to the unfolding events.