BBC's Jay Blades surprising move as future of The Repair Shop hangs in balance

Fans were surprised by the move

Jay Blades has taken to hosting an unexpected late-night DJ session online, which stands in contrast to the seven million viewers who typically watch him on the hit series The Repair Shop.

Currently off-air after Blades was charged with controlling and coercive behaviour towards his 43-year-old estranged wife Lisa Zbozen, Blades was spotted during the DJ event raising his hands high and engaging warmly with the few viewers who were watching around midnight. Donned in a black sweater and sporting his signature glasses, Blades introduced himself as Jay Blades MBE during the live-streamed session.

A viewer remarked: "I couldn't believe it when I saw he was online doing a session it's a website called MixCloud which DJs use. He seemed like a guy without a care in the world, and looked like he was having a few drinks and he was dancing away on his own maybe that is helping to get him through. At the end he said he'd be back online soon and asked viewers to keep an eye on his channels for updates about it."

The television star unexpectedly switched to a still image from one of his popular TV shows during the broadcast, showcasing a one-off special with Judi Dench where they appeared together.

Blades' appearance follows the decision by television networks to put a hold on his programmes subsequent to the charges of coercive behaviour, reports the Mirror. Furthermore, it appears the BBC may cancel the Christmas edition of The Repair Shop.

Channel 5 has put a halt to a documentary series that Blades was working on, titled A Country House Through Time. Additionally, Channel 4 has confirmed they will not be producing a follow-up to his recent travelogue with Dame Judi Dench, The Odd Couple.

Blades has been the host of The Repair Shop for seven years. His estranged wife shared a post on Instagram on May 2, announcing the end of their 18-month marriage.

An investigation was launched by West Mercia Police the following day. Blades, who has been released on bail, is scheduled to appear at Worcester Crown Court on October 11. His spokeswoman chose not to comment.