Strictly Come Dancing star Neil Jones has prompted a flurry of support from his BBC co-stars as he mourns a devastating loss.
Mr Jones, who has been a professional dancer on the competition series since 2016, shared some black and white photos of his late dad as he revealed he’d said his “final goodbye” at his funeral.
The 43-year-old wrote in 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.”
He ended the sad announcement: “Thank you Wendy and everyone for making it such a special day. RIP DAD.”
Neil Jones announced he had lost his father
| BBC
His fellow professionals and other famous faces were quick to share sympathetic messages in the comments.
Nikita Kuzmin shared: “Sending you so much love Neil,” while Nadiya Bychkova wrote: “So sorry sending all our love.”
Dianne Buswell penned: “Jonsey sending you so much love.”
“Love you my friend,” Amy Dowden commented.
Michelle Tsiakkas shared: “Sorry for your loss Neil.”Nancy Xu added: “Sending you lots of love,” while Katya Jones wrote: “Rest in peace David.”
Former professional James Jordan wrote: “Mate️. I’m so so sorry for your loss – sending love.” (sic)
Photos shared by Mr Jones saw his dad smiling in various locations, with a couple of the sweet images showing him raising a pint.
Mr Jones wasn’t partnered with anyone in the current series of BBC Strictly, but has appeared in most episodes as a backing dancer.
Tomorrow’s episode marks the final chance for partners to make it through to Blackpool Week.
On Thursday’s spin-off show, It Takes Two, host Janette Manrara disclosed some unexpected news about the milestone week in the competition.
The presenter revealed that four celebrated former contestants will make their way back to the ballroom for an exclusive performance during highly anticipated special.
The performance is scheduled for next Sunday’s results programme on November 23.
The special routine will see the former contestants partnering with the show’s professional dancers in a choreographed piece that promises to showcase memorable elements from their original appearances on the programme.
Neil Jones shared an emotional post
The returning performers comprise 2015 champion Jay McGuiness, who triumphed alongside professional partner Aliona Vilani, and three other finalists from subsequent series.
Actor Danny Mac reached the 2016 final partnered with Oti Mabuse, whilst former Pussycat Dolls member Ashley Roberts competed as a 2018 finalist alongside Pasha Kovalev.
Theatre performer Layton Williams completes the quartet, having reached the 2023 final with professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin.
