Jay Blades Charged With Rape: BBC Star to Appear in Court
Jay Blades, best known as the presenter of BBC’s The Repair Shop, has been formally charged with rape and is set to appear in court later this month, according to UK police and court records.
The 54-year-old television personality is accused of committing the offence in 2014, although the charge was only recently brought after a detailed investigation. Authorities confirmed the alleged incident involved a woman who came forward with her complaint several years after the reported attack.
The Metropolitan Police said in a statement:
“A 54-year-old man has been charged with rape relating to an incident reported to have occurred in Hackney in 2014. He will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 22 August.”
Jay Blades has yet to publicly comment on the charges. The BBC has also not released an official statement regarding the matter or Blades’ role on The Repair Shop, which has become one of the broadcaster’s most popular daytime shows.
Known for his warm, empathetic presence and deep community work, Blades has been a prominent figure in British television. He was awarded an MBE in 2021 for services to craft and heritage, and his backstory of overcoming adversity — including homelessness and mental health struggles — has been widely shared in interviews and documentaries.
The news has shocked many fans and supporters, some of whom have taken to social media expressing disbelief and urging for due process. Legal experts stress that the presumption of innocence applies, and that the judicial process must now take its course.
This case marks a significant moment for the BBC, which has dealt with other high-profile controversies involving talent in recent years. Media regulators will also be watching closely, especially as The Repair Shop continues airing repeats and is still listed in the BBC’s forward programming.
Jay Blades will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 22, where the charge will be formally read and the legal proceedings will begin. If the case proceeds to trial, further details may be disclosed by the Crown Prosecution Service.
This is a developing story.
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