Strictly Come Dancing star says he wants 'quieter life' as he lands new BBC role

Strictly Come Dancing star Neil Jones has revealed his plans to explore a quieter life in the countryside, as he joins a special series of Celebrity Escape To The Country.

It was revealed earlier this year that the professional dancer was joining a star-studded line-up for the BBC programme, which is returning with a third season.

Famous faces including Neil, Loose Women star Janet Street-Porter, Gareth Malone, Chesney Hawkes, Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock and Angellica Bell are all on the hunt to escape the hustle and bustle of city life in search of country living.

They’ll be exploring locations from the ancient woodlands of the New Forest to the wild moorlands of Yorkshire, alongside Escape To The Country’s roster of hosts.

Neil has now spoken about how he’s hoping to find somewhere “peaceful”, in an escape from his “hectic” life revolving around Strictly.

The dancer shares baby daughter Havana, who he welcomed in 2023, with Love Island star Chyna Mills.

Neil shared with The Sun: “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.”

After the news of Neil and Chyna’s stint on Escape To The Country was shared on social media, fans rushed to share their support, with one writing: “Can’t wait for this!”

“What a treat,” someone else wrote, as a third echoed: “This is the best show on Earth.”

The BBC previously revealed that the new hour-long specials will follow the celebrities as they venture beyond their familiar urban surroundings in search of the perfect countryside escape.

The release teased: “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.

“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 said: ‘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 added: “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.