Shropshire TV star Jay Blades in court as separate rape charges emerge
The 55-year-old is due to appear at Telford Magistrates' Court next week
Last updated 6th Aug 2025
TV presenter, Jay Blades, has appeared in court on a controlling or coercive behaviour charge after it emerged he has been separately accused of two counts of rape.
West Mercia Police said the 55-year-old is due to appear at Telford Magistrates' Court on August 13 on the rape charges.
On Tuesday, Blades, who fronted primetime BBC show The Repair Shop, appeared at Worcester Crown Court via video link for a preliminary hearing in relation to the controlling or coercive behaviour charge.
Blades, who wore animal-print spectacles, a grey suit and a blue polka-dot tie, spoke only to confirm his name during a short hearing.
The TV star denied engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour towards his estranged wife, Lisa-Marie Zbozen, between January 1 2023 and September 12 last year.
He faces trial at a later date.
In a statement on Tuesday, police also confirmed separate charges of rape.
The force said: "Jason Blades, 55, of Claverley in Shropshire, has been charged with two counts of rape.
"He is due to appear at Telford Magistrates' Court on 13 August 2025."