The repair shop continues without Jay Blades as he deals with challenges in his personal life.
Earlier this month, furniture restorer Blades, the face of the BBC series, made headlines after his wife Lisa Zbozen announced she was leaving him.
The news came shortly after Blades announced that his uncle Richard Brathwaite had been killed. In a post to his fans, Blades said Brathwaite’s death had “really affected” him and announced a break from social media – saying The Independent he planned to see a counselor.
This was confirmed by an Instagram post in which the London-born TV presenter told his followers that he was going to “go to therapy and just relax.”
Blades spokesman said The Independent that this break will affect his Repair shop role after reports emerged that he had not shown up for filming this week.
A source told The Sun: “The death of his uncle in March and the breakdown of his marriage have forced him to take some time off.”
Regarding the split from his wife, the source added: “People who worked with Jay said they were shocked to hear that his marriage to Lisa was over. It was not known at all among the people who work on the show.”
In an interview with The Independentsaid Blades The repair shop saved his life after he landed the presenter job following an acute mental crisis and a suicide attempt.
He said the show, which features artisans from across the country restoring family heirlooms with sentimental value, helps others express their feelings.
“We have created a culture, particularly with men, where if you show your vulnerability you become a victim,” he said, adding: “Growing up in Hackney I always believed you had to be a tough guy because I grew up in a very tough environment.”
Pointing to the high suicide rate among British men, which is the leading cause of death for men under 50, Blades asked: “Why is that? Because a lot of men are struggling with things and don’t know how to express it.”
The Independent has asked Blades and the BBC for comment.
If you are feeling distressed or are having difficulty coping, you can speak to the Samaritans in confidence on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email [email protected] or call the Samaritan website to find details of your nearest branch.
If you live in the United States and you or someone you know needs mental health help right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline available to anyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If you are in another country, you can www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
