BBC Strictly Come Dancing winner announces marriage split and issues emotional plea

Ore Oduba and Joanne Clifton won the 2016 Strictly series (Image: PA)

Strictly Come Dancing star Ore Oduba has announced his split from wife Portia Oduba. The TV and radio presenter, who won the 14th series of Strictly with partner Joanne Clifton, wed Portia in 2015.

Ore shared the sad news on Instagram, writing: "Hi guys. Portia and I are sad to announce that we separated earlier this year. We're so grateful for all the love you've shared with us both over the years. And we want to thank you in advance for respecting our privacy as we navigated this difficult transition. We will be making no further comment. Be kind, always."

The couple began their romance back in 2010 during their university days at Loughborough and got engaged in 2014. Their wedding took place in 2015 at the picturesque Penshurst Place in Kent.

Reflecting on his emotions during the big day, Ore told The Mirror: "On my wedding day, I cried from 11 in the morning until 2am that night. There's a picture of me wailing, my best men there laughing and Portia absolutely cracking up next to me I am the only one crying."

Ore has confirmed his split from his wife Portia (Image: Getty)

Ore and Portia have two children, their son Roman born in 2018 and daughter Genie arriving in 2021, reports Birmingham Live.

Speaking about the impact of parenthood on their marriage, Ore opened up on Good Morning Britain in 2021, saying: "My wife and I will be ten years together next month, and we've never done anything more challenging than the last 12 months. There were tears, tantrums."

The couple posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, detailing their family life: "Roman has enhanced our world more than we could have dreamt, but there are times we have to remember that we love each other and that's why he's here.

"He's been our guardian angel in lockdown but he's also been the cause of a few little tiffs."

He elaborated on maintaining their bond, saying, "It's just finding that time for each other. Every household is different. Communication is the key. We don't go to bed in an argument."

Strictly continues next Saturday at 6.30pm on BBC1.