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The Repair Shop's Jay Blades announces heartbreaking death – details

The 53-year-old presenter shared the sad news on social media


Jay Blades
Nicky Morris
TV and film writer
On 9 November 2023
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The Repair Shop star Jay Blades has announced the sad passing of his father-in-law, John Zbozen.

Taking to Instagram, the 53-year-old called on his followers to share their condolences to his wife, Lisa Zbozen.

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"THOUGHT OF THE DAY," he wrote, alongside a photo of Lisa's late father. "Yesterday My Wife @lisamariezbozen & Sister in-law @teresazbozen said goodbye to their Dad. Please join me in offering condolences to the Family.

"John Zbozen - Rest In Peace."

Fans rushed to the comments section with supportive messages, with one person writing: "Sending condolences. I hope there is joy and laughter at the wonderful memories amongst the tears and grief," while another added: "Thinking of you all today and sending my love to you and all the family."

Jay Blades in a white jacket and wife Lisa in a shirt on the red carpet© David Fisher/Shutterstock for NTA
Jay Blades with his wife Lisa

A third person commented: "So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all and sending love and hugs."

The sad news comes just weeks before Jay and Lisa will mark their one-year wedding anniversary. 

The BBC presenter married fitness instructor Lisa in an intimate ceremony held in the Bahamas on 22 November 2022. They said 'I do' in front of just 15 guests in the grounds of a beachfront villa. 

WATCH: Exclusive: Jay Blades marries Lisa Zbozen in romantic wedding

Speaking to HELLO! in an exclusive interview at the time, Jay said of his big day: "One word sums up the day: perfect.

jay blades wedding photo© Photo: Custom
Jay and Lisa tied the knot in November last year

"We had our closest family there, the weather held out and everything worked out so well." 

Lisa added: "Once you get to a certain age, you realise what's actually important on the day - and that is having the people around you that love you for who you are. So we made the day our day."

SEE: Tearful celebrity wedding photos: Princess Charlene, Stacey Solomon and more overcome with emotion

Jay went on to admit that while he rarely cries, according to his wife, he did shed a tear at the altar. "I think the thing that was most emotional for me was actually saying the vows," he said.

Jay Blades and Lisa Zbozen smiling at each other as they attend the Virgin Media British Academy Television Awards© Getty
Lisa is a fitness instructor

"It was almost like I had tunnel vision and I could only see Lisa there. And honestly, that's when it really hit me. I was like, 'We're really getting married now!' That's the only time I really got emotional."

During the ceremony, Jay and Lisa exchanged rings that had been designed by Jay's Repair Shop co-star, Richard Talman. Based on the Egyptian style of an imperfect circle, both bands contain the lovebirds' birthstones on the inside.

"I really don't want a perfect wedding ring because I think nothing is perfect," Lisa said. "It's also more individual and has got a lot more care and love thought into it."

While Jay looked suave in a black linen suit, Lisa wore an elegant A-line gown from Birmingham bridal store Romantic Dreams Bridal Boutique.

Who are the experts on The Repair Shop?

Sonnaz Nooranvary, Lucia Scalisi, Julie Tatchell, William Kirk, Jay Blades, Amanda Middleditch, Suzie Fletcher, Dominic Chinea, Steve Fletcher© Guy Levy
Sonnaz Nooranvary, Lucia Scalisi, Julie Tatchell, William Kirk, Jay Blades, Amanda Middleditch, Suzie Fletcher, Dominic Chinea, Steve Fletcher
  • Jay Blades: Presenter and furniture restoration expert
  • Will Kirk: Carpenter and woodwork expert
  • Steve Fletcher: Horologist
  • Suzie Fletcher: Leatherworker and saddle expert
  • Kirsten Ramsay: Expert in ceramics
  • Dominic Chinea: Metal worker and car restorer
  • Brenton West: Silversmith, photography expert
  • Sonnaz Nooranvary: Upholstery Restorer
  • Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell: Soft toy restores known as 'The Teddy Bear Ladies'
  • Lucia Scalisi: Painting and artwork restorer
  • Mark Stuckey: Electronics expert and radio restorer
  • Neil Fairley: Vintage electronics repairer
  • Hannah Weston Smith: Traditional Upholsterer

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