Jay Blades takes drastic social media step amid coercive behaviour charge and BBC Repair Shop edit
Jay Blades has taken a drastic measure with his social media channels just days after the BBC aired a new episode of The Repair Shop without the long-serving presenter.
The 54-year-old was charged with “controlling and coercive behaviour” towards his estranged wife Lisa Zbozen and has now decided to delete all of his social media pages.
Upon clicking on his Instagram page now, users are presented with a message that reads: “Sorry, this page isn’t available.
“The link you followed may be broken, or the page may have been removed. Go back to Instagram.”
The decision comes after the BBC appeared to air a heavily edited episode of The Repair Shop without Blades.
It’s since been reported that the beloved show’s creators, Ricochet, are eyeing up a permanent replacement for the 54-year-old.
A source told the Sun regarding Blades’ on-screen future: “Everything is up in the air following Blades getting charged, but TV chiefs didn’t want to be seen to act slowly.
“Until court proceedings have run their course, everything is getting put on hold, and alternative plans are being considered.
“But The Repair Shop is likely to continue as it’s hugely popular and the feeling is that the show is bigger than any individual.”
The publication also claims that Blades has already been axed from The Repair Shop’s annual Christmas special.
It isn’t just the BBC who’s reacted promptly to Blades’ charge either.
Channel 5 has shelved a documentary series called A Country House Through Time featuring The Repair Shop host.
He also appeared in a one-off documentary with Judi Dench earlier this year for Channel 4 – the network has confirmed there won’t be a sequel.
Online, both the BBC and Channel 5 have reportedly removed programming featuring Blades from respective catch-up services.
Blades will appear at Worcester Crown Court on October 11 where he’ll take part in a plea and trial preparation hearing.
West Mercia Police said at the time of his charge: “54-year-old Jason Blades of Wolverhampton has been charged with controlling and coercive behaviour.
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“He appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates Court this morning (Friday, September 13) and has been bailed to appear at Worcester Crown Court on Friday 11th October.
“The charges follow the launch of an investigation after we were called to an address on May 3.”
GB News has contacted the BBC for comment.
