Strictly Come Dancing star says ‘it’s the right moment’ as he lands new BBC role

The Strictly Come Dancing professional opened up about wanting to explore a “quieter” lifestyle.

Strictly Come Dancing professional Neil Jones has disclosed his intentions to pursue a more tranquil countryside life, as he participates in a special edition of Celebrity Escape To The Country.

Earlier this year, it emerged that the professional dancer would be joining an impressive celebrity cast for the BBC show, which is making a comeback with its third series.

Notable personalities including Neil, Loose Women presenter Janet Street-Porter, Gareth Malone, Chesney Hawkes, Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock and Angellica Bell are all seeking to flee the chaos of urban living in favour of rural tranquillity.

They’ll be discovering destinations ranging from the historic forests of the New Forest to Yorkshire’s untamed moorlands, accompanied by Escape To The Country’s team of presenters.

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Neil has now opened up about his desire to discover somewhere “peaceful”, as a refuge from his “hectic” existence centred around Strictly, reports Wales Online.

The dancer is father to baby daughter Havana, born in 2023, with Love Island personality Chyna Mills.

Speaking to The Sun, Neil revealed: “It felt like the right moment to look for something a little bigger and calmer for my family.

“My life can get pretty hectic with rehearsals, shows, and travelling, and London is always buzzing, so I wanted to explore what a quieter, more grounded lifestyle might look like for us.

“Somewhere peaceful but not isolated. I want space for Havana to run around, fresh air, beautiful walks, and hopefully a few farm animals nearby. Most of all, I want somewhere that feels welcoming and easy to unwind in.”

Following the announcement of Neil and Chyna’s appearance on Escape To The Country on social media, fans were quick to express their excitement.

One fan wrote: “Can’t wait for this!” Another chimed in with: “What a treat,” while a third declared: “This is the best show on Earth.”

The BBC has previously shared that the new hour-long specials will see celebrities stepping out of their usual urban environments to seek out the ideal rural retreat.

The press release hinted: “Along the way, they will discover the rewards and realities of rural life, from stunning landscapes and characterful homes to the communities that make Britain’s countryside so unique.”

It added: “Each episode offers not only a glimpse into the property market but also a personal journey, as the celebrities reflect on what inspires their own dream of a simpler, slower-paced life.”

John Comerford, Head of Naked West, a Fremantle label and Executive Producer, expressed his delight at the show’s return, saying: “We are thrilled to be announcing the return of Celebrity Escape to the Country. Watching our celebrities experience the beauty of rural Britain, whilst exploring the possibility of a new life in the countryside, is a joy, and we cannot wait for viewers to see it.”

Julie Shaw, Commissioning Editor for BBC Daytime, chimed in: “There’s nothing quite like sitting at home and watching your favourite celebrities try and find their dream homes across the UK and realising they’re just like us! Celebrity Escape to the Country has quickly won over the hearts of audiences as they get an exclusive look into the non-negotiables of our house-hunting stars!”

Celebrity Escape to the Country Series 3 airs from Sunday 21st December at 6.05pm on BBC One and iPlayer.