In a recent turn of events, BBC star Jay Blades has had a driving charge against him dropped.
This comes shortly after he faced a separate charge involving controlling and coercive behavior towards his estranged wife.
Blades, known for his role as the host of The Repair Shop, was accused of using his phone while driving in Wombourne, Staffordshire, last April—a claim he has always denied.
Court Appearance and Case Update
Blades appeared at Cannock Magistrates Court today, dressed in a black suit and his signature flatcap, holding a bottle of water.
The Crown Prosecution Service decided not to proceed with the driving charge, leading to its dismissal and clearing Blades of this particular allegation.
On Friday, Blades was also set to face Kidderminster Magistrates Court regarding a charge of controlling or coercive behavior in an intimate relationship, specifically relating to his estranged wife, Lisa Zbozen.
Zbozen, a fitness instructor, had announced their separation on social media back in May.
This prompted West Mercia Police to investigate after their call-out the following day.
Future Court Dates and Career Implications
Jay Blades, who is a father of three, is scheduled to appear at Worcester Crown Court on October 11 for a plea and trial preparation hearing.
In light of these recent legal issues, he has stepped down from his roles with the King’s Foundation and as chancellor at Buckinghamshire New University.
Blades had previously achieved notable success, including winning a daytime BAFTA TV award for a special Repair Shop episode featuring the then-Prince of Wales.
Despite leaving school at 15, he pursued a degree in criminology and philosophy at Buckinghamshire New University and co-founded Out of the Dark, a charitable organization aimed at empowering young people through furniture recycling and training.
Blades’ Fame and Contributions
Since 2017, Blades has gained widespread recognition through The Repair Shop, where he helps restore cherished family heirlooms.
In 2022, he and his team had the honor of visiting the King, then the Prince of Wales, as part of a special episode marking the BBC’s centenary.
What’s next for Jay Blades remains to be seen, but his legal and career challenges continue to make headlines.