Odudu to miss Strictly final

TV presenter AJ Odudu has pulled out of the Strictly Come Dancing final after suffering a torn ligament in her ankle.

Odudu and partner Kai Widdrington were to compete tonight against soap star Rose Ayling-Ellis and partner Giovanni Pernice and baker John Whaite and partner Johannes Radebe for the glitterball trophy, but her ability to perform was already in doubt after injuring herself in rehearsals.

Odudu 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.

“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.

“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.

“You’ve made this experience one to remember. Strictly Come Dancing has been a lifelong dream and I’m glad it came true.”

Widdrington said: “I’ve been absolutely honoured to get to dance with the incredible AJ Odudu for the last few months and although neither of us wanted our journey to end this way, AJ’s health and safety are by far the most important things.

“I know we will be friends for life and I will be there for her through her recovery in whatever way I can.”

Odudu had previously said the pain in her ankle was so bad that she vomited and earlier this week she could not even stand without crutches.

Sarah James, executive producer of Strictly Come Dancing, 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.

“We cannot thank her enough for fully embracing the experience and being a total delight both on and off the dance floor.

“AJ and Kai are a wonderful partnership and have performed some unforgettable routines.

“Although this is not how we would have wanted her Strictly journey to end, AJ’s health and wellbeing come first and everyone involved in the show send her all our love and wish her a speedy recovery.”

The Strictly Come Dancing final is on BBC One tonight at 7pm.

DISAPPOINTMENT: AJ Odudu performing with Strictly dance partner Kai Widdrington.