Rumours have been flying around of the possibility that Kai and AJ are more than just dance partners. View our online Press Pack. Guys, I was in character at that moment on the dance floor this week. Sign up to our newsletter to get other stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Her mum moved from Nigeria to Blackburn in the 1970s to marry her dad as part of an arranged marriage, and in an interview with Mail Online in 2018, AJ opened up about the difference between her parents' life and her own. AJ and Will are going to be formally announced by ITV really soon and they cant wait to get stuck in.. Ive had two incisions to drain the inflammation around my ankle. She admits she was really angry at her ankle for the injury, but that the show was a hugely positive experience in her life. AJ said via her Instagram, How it started. Her withdrawal leaves two contestants competing for the title of Strictly champion: the Great British Bake Off winner John Whaite, who is partnered with Johannes Radebe and performed a much-celebrated version of Adeles Hometown Glory in Saturdays semi-final; and the EastEnders actor Rose Ayling-Ellis, the first deaf contestant in the shows history, who dances with Giovanni Pernice, having wowed viewers with a powerful tribute to deaf people, set to the music of Clean Bandit and Zara Larsson. 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Youve made this experience one to remember and I couldnt be more grateful for your well wishes. The broadcaster revealed the news in a video clip, which showed the pair alongside the reality show's iconic eye logo. That felt really special.. Odudu was born to Nigerian parents. In 2009, she landed her first presenting job on the BBC Two seriesThe Almost Perfect Guide to Lifeand on an online show,The 5:19 Show. Read more: Richard Arnold makes tearful confession on GMB. A source said: AJ has known since last year the Big Brother job was hers but shes been waiting for her co-host to be confirmed. We use your sign-up to provide content in the ways you've consented to and improve our understanding of you. AJ is currently believed to be single. The hosting gig comes shortly after AJ's amazing stint on Strictly Come Dancing, where she raised eyebrows with her sizzling chemistry with dance partner Kai Widdrington. Pair withdraw from show on Saturday night after medical guidance on her foot injury. Kai and AJ appeared on BBC's It Takes Two following rumours that their relationship had been confirmed but they didn't admit to anything. Who is AJ Odudu, Big Brother's new co-host? I will be cheering you on (on one leg!).. AJ Odudu sparks frenzy with post dedicated to Kai after Strictly exit Odudu is currently single. Here's what she's said, MORE: Strictly's AJ Odudu admits 'worry' about being paired with Kai Widdrington. While on the show AJ got to know Timini Egbuson but sadly the relationship between the two didn't end up going any further. Its very passionate and intense whenever theyre together. "We cannot thank her enough for fully embracing the experience and being a total delight both on and off the dance floor. Now Kai is in a new relationship with fellow pro Nadiya after the pair went public earlier this year. Also on the show, AJ Odudu and her partner Kai Widdrington pulled off another incredible performance. What will happen now AJ Odudu can't dance in the Strictly final Maisie Williams, AJ Odudu and Ashley Roberts lead the stars attending the art'otel London launch event at Battersea Power Station on Wednesday. ", AJ is currently resting, but sadly was not recovered enough to return to the show for the grand final. Ive had ultrasounds, MRI scans and X-rays. AJ Odudu's love life: Who is the BAFTA host and Strictly star dating? AJ had been one of the frontrunners since the 19th series started back in September, topping the Strictly Come Dancing leaderboard in Week One, and managed to make it to the Strictly Come Dancing 2021 final along with her professional dance partner Kai Widdrington. Thank you to the Strictly family for the experience, the medical team for trying to get me back on my feet and mostly, to everyone at home for watching and supporting. She also posted social media photos of herself on a crutch and released a statement saying the pain was so acute that I projectile vomited and currently I cant put any weight on my right foot without agonising discomfort. Her partner, Kai wrote on his Instagram, This is very hard to put into words but Im going to try. "Learning to dance over the last 13 weeks has been an incredible honour and to do it alongside someone as special, patient and devoted as Kai is something I'll treasure forever. AJ Odudu and Will Best are the new Big Brother hosts! "Well watch Strictly Come Dancing together over the telephone when were not in the same household," AJ said. Strictly Come Dancing star AJ Odudu injured and on crutches ahead of I want to say a big thank you to every one on the show, from my fellow professionals, the celebrities, the judges, production, the costume, lighting and design department, the dance team and all the amazing people that work behind the scenes who help make Strictly the show it is. As always you can unsubscribe at any time. AJ Odudus net worth is estimated to be $2 Million. Browse our new catalogue to inspire you with homeware, gardening tools, books and more! To see this page as it is meant to appear, please enable your Javascript! I've met them all now. Strictly was an overwhelmingly positive experience. She continued: "I was playing Rachel, he was playing Frank [from The Bodyguard]. The news was confirmed in the clip posted to social media by ITV, which showed the pair posing while the Big Brother theme tune played. . Meanwhile, Kai and Nadiya went official with their romance last month after 32-year-old Nadiya split from her fianc, Slovenian footballer Matija Skarabot. Despite not confirming the romance reports, AJ did later reveal that she has met her professional partner's family. I couldn't be happier. "Thank you to the Strictly family for the experience, the medical team for trying to get me back on my feet and mostly, to everyone at home for watching and supporting. Week 11 was not great as she finished bottom, but she climbed all the way back to the top in the semi-final. In view of her 206,000 followers, the TV presenter posted a snap of herself and Kai taking a cheeky selfie from backstage at last weekend's Strictly semi-final. Throughout her career, she has also guest presented on The One Show, Lorraine, and This Morning, and she is a Contributing Editor for Grazia Magazine. And finally the biggest thank you to everyone who voted for us throughout the series, your support has been unforgettable.". Bring it on!". Tom Fletcher and partner Amy Dowden RETURN to the dance floor The Manchester Evening News reported that the star said: "I find it exciting that everyones interested in us enough to take note of all of these things. The couple received 35 points from the judges during Saturday nights Movie Week show with their epic American smooth to I Have Nothing from The Bodyguard. The TV presenter had been unable to rehearse with partner Kai Widdrington. AJ and Kai have been 'hitting it off', according to sources (Picture: BBC) Kai is single after splitting from his dancer girlfriend Giulia Dotta earlier this year after five years together. The star, who sadly had to pull out of the grand finale due to an injury, prefers to keep her love life private but since being on the show, she has opened up about the prospect of romance. Who is AJ Odudu's partner? Ive injected local anaesthetic directly into my foot, I have been strapped up to an ice compression machine for days, Odudu said on Instagram. If youve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page wed love to hear from you. Her face will be a picture, shes going to be over the moon! Speaking to the Daily Star, she said: "I met Kai's mum and had a conversation. The pair have certainly been getting on well on the dance floor as just last ween the pair scored 39 out of a possible 40 points. Picture: Getty AJ Odudu is a well known TV presenter and is also contributing editor for Grazia UK. she was a competitor on the 19th series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2021. AJ Odudu has told her Strictly Come Dancing partner Kai Widdrington how much she misses him. Here's what she's said, Strictly's AJ Odudu admits 'worry' about being paired with Kai Widdrington, 7 stars rumoured to star on Strictly Come Dancing 2023, Strictly's Nikita Kuzmin dating sex podcaster Charlie Backshall - exclusive first photos, Exclusive: Strictly's Gorka Marquez and Neil Jones reveal they're swapping baby tips, Susanna Reid 'devastated' as she shares emotional tribute to late Strictly star, Big Brother confirms two new hosts for 2023 reboot and fans have same reaction, Strictly Come Dancing stars share heartfelt tributes to Len Goodman, Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman dies aged 78, Kylie Jenner and Travis Scott's relationship timeline. AJ Odudu and her partner, Kai Widdrington, have pulled out of the Strictly Come Dancing final on Saturday night after consulting medical professionals regarding Odudu's foot injury.. Following the end of her Strictly journey, here's everything you need to know about AJ Odudu. Hes kind, compassionate and makes me laugh. "Although this is not how we would have wanted her Strictly journey to end, AJs health and wellbeing come first and everyone involved in the show send her all our love and wish her a speedy recovery.". The television presenter has said that she hopes Kai will stay in her life "forever." Related articles I'm on crutches and I'm doing everything I can to try and be there. Speaking exclusively to OK!, AJ, 34, opened up . However, sadly, they had to pull out days before the show after AJ suffered a devastating ankle injury. AJ isn't married. Who will win Strictly 2021? Fan-favourite predicted to land in quarter However it seems that the romance didn't last. AJ Odudu - Wikipedia Her parents had an arranged marriage, which has lasted for over four decades. To inquire about a licence to reproduce material, visit our Syndication site. Talking to The Star newspaper before the start of the series, she revealed that her mum was excited for her to appear on the show as the pair are huge fans. Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). Odudu stands tall at the perfect height of 5 feet 7 inches. Eurovision's AJ Odudu unlucky in love after being cheated on three AJ said: "I'm so excited to finally be able to say that, yes: I'm hosting Big Brother! Her boyfriend is unclear. We can't . Ive done all I can possibly do to get back on my feet for the @bbcstrictly Final, I even asked the docs if I could perform in a medical moonboot! In a statement, AJ said: "Strictly Come Dancing has been a lifelong dream and I'm glad it came true. Until next time, keep dancing x He added. However, she departed from the show in November 2013. Meeting the parents! Visit our Entertainment hub for all the latest news. On previous TV shows, AJ has opened up about previous relationships and the fact she has been cheated on by previous partners numerous times, which has left her with a lot of trust issues when entering new relationships. As revealed by Odudu, she has been cheated on by three ex-boyfriends. Odudu said: Im deeply upset that I am unable to perform in the final due to a torn ligament in my right ankle. "I know we will be friends for life and I will be there for her through her recovery in whatever way I can. Her first TV role saw her fronting BBC Two's The Almost Perfect Guide to Life back in 2009 and she shot to fame after co-hosting Big Brother's Bit on the Side with Emma Willis and Rylan Clark in 2013. In December 2021, there were rumours when she was on Strictly that she was dating her dance partner Kai. AJ said in a statement: "I'm deeply upset that I am unable to perform in the Final due to a torn ligament in my right ankle. Strictly Come Dancing has been a lifelong dream and Im glad it came true. Emmerdale spoilers tonight: Suzy catches Faye out. I'm so excited. The pair never confirmed if they went further than the show but Timini also posted a sweet snap of the two of them on his Instagram. The Ballroom and Latin champion split from his dancer girlfriend and fellow Dancing with the Stars professional, Giulia Dotta, last year. Sparks are said to be flying between Strictly Come Dancing's AJ Odudu and Kai Widdrington. Currently, she is competing on the 19th season ofStrictly Comes Dancing,partnering with professional dancer Kai Widdrington. I absolutely love the show and am fully committed to making the most of every second of the Strictly experience. Her parents are from Nigeria. HELLO! Rest up and bring on tour.". Want something else to watch? And what has she said about her love life in the past? She has two sisters and five brothers. She has a well-maintained, fit body that weighs around 58 kgs. The TV presenter was one of the first names to be announced for the 2021 series. I didnt want to let anyone down, especially Kai, with such a beautiful dance., She certainly didnt let anyone down, with Kai pointing out: This girl works so, so hard., Amanda Abbington in talks to compete in this years Strictly Come Dancing, Strictly Come Dancing star quits to focus on 'exciting future projects', Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman dies aged 78 after 'short illness'. Who is AJ Odudu? Big Brother's new co-host revealed Tonight's final sees John Whaite and his partner Johannes Radebe go up against EastEnders star Rose Ayling Ellis and dance pro Giovanni Pernice. Who is AJ Odudu and is she married? - The Sun | The Sun AJ then admitted that she enjoys how everyone is talking about them. Kai is a dancer and choreographer, he won the World Junior Latin American champion at the age of 14. The relationship was never confirmed but when a fan commented 'your man?' He wrote: " Congratulations @ajodudu #ManhuntingWithMyMum premiered on Channel 4 'channel4 last night and it was amazing. . I am absolutely gutted that AJ and I wont get to finish our journey on Strictly the way we wouldve wanted to. AJ Odudu and her Strictly Come Dancing partner Kai Widdrington sent their fans into meltdown on Friday after they were pictured paying a visit to the TV presenter's hometown, Blackburn, and. In July 2021, Odudu won the second series of Celebrity Karaoke Club on ITV2. You've made this experience one to remember. So, we have missed a lot of training because I can't stand up. AJ is already a renowned name in the UK's showbiz especially the TV industry. Not just one, but three and one was even sleeping with her best friend. "And Claudia is so lovely, and is so kind to us each and every week, so its all fun and games.". AJ Odudu has spoken out about her relationship with Kai Widdrington after he got together with Nadiya Bychkova. Learning to dance over the last 13 weeks has been an incredible honour and to do it alongside someone as special, patient and devoted as Kai is something Ill treasure forever. "AJ has been open about her past relationship history. The class of 2021 includes newly minted gold medallist Adam Peaty, former Bake Off champion John Whaite and presenter AJ Odudu, with newsreader Dan Walker and CBBC's Rhys Stephenson continuing. The job is a big step-up for AJ, who previously hosted Big Brothers Bit On The Side in 2013. Aj said. Youve made this experience one to remember. parenting advice, Susanna and Ed Balls paid tribute on Good Morning Britain, The new series will arrive on ITV and ITVX, Craig Revel Horwood, Tess Daly and more have shared statements, The professional dancer was also a judge on Dancing with the Stars, The Keeping Up with the Kardashians star and Astroworld rapper's relationship Who is AJ Odudu? Meet Strictly Come Dancing 2021 contestant - Radio Times 2021 is set to be an even stronger year for AJ as she'll be hosting Channel 4's The Big Breakfast reboot alongside Mo Gilligan, and, of course, stepping out onto the Strictly dancefloor! Every year the 'Strictly curse' gets mentioned and the latest rumour is that AJ and her partner Kai Widdrington could be more than just friends. She went on: Its early days and weve been rehearsing for the Strictly Professionals tour, so theres been very little free time. The TV presenter confirmed to the BBC on Wednesday she had been unable to. 1 /2 AJ Odudu pulls out of tomorrow night's Strictly final AJ Odudu pulls out of tomorrow night's Strictly final The TV presenter paid tribute to her professional partner, Kai Widdrington Odudu withdraws having finished the previous week in joint first place on the leaderboard with Ayling-Ellis as well as landing her first perfect score for a quickstep routine. Strictly Come Dancing airs tonight at 7.10pm on BBC One. Will came to prominence as a presenter onChannel 4s teen show T4 in 2011 and has presented dating show Love Shaft on E4. I will be cheering you all on (on one leg). She added. She was on crutches earlier this week, but has now. "You're the best @kaiwidd and I know you were ready to be my human crutch on that dancefloor come tomorrow night.". Humor, information and rumors. 679215 Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF. The star is still close to her family, including her mum, even bringing her to London when she appeared on The One Show to announce she would be starring in Strictly. The 33 year old TV presenter, who is currently single, is said to have "electric chemistry" with . Big Brother hosts confirmed as Strictly star and surprise partner Big Brother's new hosts are AJ Odudu and Will Best, ITV has announced. However, Odudu and Widdrington have decided to withdraw as she has been unable to overcome the injury with medical treatment. . It's part of who I am. I truly have made a friend for life in her and cant wait to take to the dance floor with her again when she is fully recovered., It has always been a dream of mine to join the the amazing cast of Strictly Come Dancing every since I was a kid, but to come in on my first season and be partnered with an amazing person like AJ and have the experience I have had is more than I could have ever imagined. Originally from Blackburn, Lancashire, Onatejiro AJ Odudu was born on 12 February 1988 under the star sign Aquarius. They have been married for more than four decades and they have eight children. Jamie Laing reveals romance happens on Strictly because partners 'build AJ shot to fame hosting Big Brother's Bit on the Side. AJ Odudu: Presenter pulls out of Strictly Come Dancing live tour due to Finally, Strictly Come Dancing's executive producer Sarah James said: AJ may not be able to compete in the Final but she is and always will be one of the most brilliant Strictly finalists we have ever had. Strictly Come Dancing: AJ Odudu ruled out of final with ankle injury She stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches (1.73m) tall. However, after months of rumours, bosses have now confirmed the news that former Strictly Come Dancing star AJ Odudu will host the revived series, alongside co-host Will Best, who is best known for fronting the likes of T4 on the Beach and Dance Dance Dance. Strictly 2021: AJ Odudu 'falling' for dance partner Kai - Metro I feel very relaxed with him.. But AJ was a bit more open with her love life when she filmed Manhunting with my Mum for Channel 4. How its going. Sad but true. Like this story? Who is AJ Odudus boyfriend? Hes got loads of banter and hes been blown away by her, too.. He has also appeared on the sixth and eighth series of Britains Got Talent. As of 2021, she has an estimated net worth of $1.5 million. AJ Odudus mother served as a cleaner in a school. Read more: AJ Odudu wows fans with bikini photo. SEE:Strictly's Kai Widdringtron shares adorable throwback photo and we hardly recognised him! AJ Odudu has revealed she's "happy" for her former Strictly partner Kai Widdrington over his new romance with fellow pro Nadiya Bychkova.. Something went wrong, please try again later. She was chosen out of a legion of stars to host the show and beat off competition from stars includingAlison Hammond, Emily Atack and Vick Hope. Every year the 'Strictly curse' gets mentioned and the latest rumour is. All Creatures Great and Small's Samuel West on worry for 'lonely' dad, Jeremy Clarkson fumes at F1 amid Verstappen's win as he backs Hamilton, AJ Odudu posted a sweet tribute to her Strictly Come dancing partner Kai Widdrington this evening, Julia Bradbury inundated with replies as she posts update on cancer, AJ Odudu took to social media to reveal that she had damaged her spring ligament, AJ Odudu confirmed that she would not be competing in the Strictly final yesterday, AJ Odudu and Kai have wowed te Strictly judges with their chemistry week after week, AJ Odudu and Kai sparked romance rumours due to their steamy performances, Strictly star Jamie Laing announces engagement hours before show final, I wont be watching James Jordan issues apology as he skips Strictly, Piers Morgan says 'Megan Markle's not a big fan', Charlie Dimmock on 'most difficult' part of Ground Force affair, Cleese logs formal complaint against BBC for 'deceptive' interview, Johannes Radebe says 'I've won' ahead of Strictly final due to John, Janette Manrara talks disagreeing with Strictly judges' comments, Romesh Ranganathan struggled to control Strictly stars, Shaun Wallace explains health reason behind why he cant do Strictly, Anton Du Beke 'territorial' over Strictly while addressing show future. ITV have confirmed that AJ Odudu and Will Best have signed on to front the new series of Big Brother. Good luck to my partners in dance, @john_whaite & @Johannesradebe and @Rose.a.e and @perniceGiovann1. Sources at the BBC show dance have claimed that as well as helping his partner bag the highest scores of the season, he has also been providing a shoulder to cry on in her personal life. In a new interview with Fabulous magazine, AJ has spoken out about how things are between her and Kai now. 'Whether he likes it or not' AJ Odudu says Strictly partner Kai will be Im still hoping that Ill meet my man through a friend and hell [have] been there all along, you know what I mean?. Ive had two incisions to drain the inflammation around my ankle. The TV presenter is currently the second favourite to win the 2022 series, but has . She then hosted 4Music program,Trending Live!,with Vick Hope and Jimmy Hill. Despite not confirming the romance reports, AJ did later reveal that she has met her professional partner's family. The Blackburn, Lancashire native attended St Bedes RC High School and St Marys College. You can unsubscribe at any time. She's now based in London but has received comments online about her accent, although she's adamant that she won't let them affect her. AJ Odudu drops out of Strictly Come Dancing Strictly star AJ Odudu BBC It was announced on Friday 17th December 2021 on the day before the grand final that AJ Odudu would have to. "I want to thank AJ for being the absolute best partner I could ever have asked for in my first year on the show and I will always treasure the memories of dancing in the Strictly ballroom with her. Watch this space! MORE:AJ Odudu's health and fitness secrets will seriously impress Strictly fans - wait 'til you see her six-pack, SEE: AJ Odudu debuts spectacular garden makeover exclusive. Get all the Strictly glitter and goss straight to your inbox with our Strictly Come Dancing newsletter. BGT viewers threaten to complain to Ofcom over disgusting performance, Im A Celebrity star got into altercation with Janice Dickinsons husband as Gillian McKeith details very tense atmosphere. the pair of them both liked the comment. In the snap, AJ looked the epitome of glam as she wore a stunning silver and white dress and a slick of red lipstick. AJ revealed she is looking for love Id love to meet someone she said. Dortepost penned: "Mr. and Mrs. Widdudu showing us how to laugh through the tears and love through the hard times. Giving her followers an update on her health, AJ wrote: "I've had ultrasounds, MRI scans and x-rays. But the fact is I cant stand on my feet, let alone dance.. parenting advice, Susanna and Ed Balls paid tribute on Good Morning Britain, The new series will arrive on ITV and ITVX, Craig Revel Horwood, Tess Daly and more have shared statements, The professional dancer was also a judge on Dancing with the Stars, The Keeping Up with the Kardashians star and Astroworld rapper's relationship . AJ Odudus elder sister is an engineer while the other sister is training to be a teacher, her oldest brother is a lecturer at Cambridge University and one of her brothers is a kidney specialist.