‘It’s been eye-opening’
Friends Emma Willis and AJ Odudu on why they’re helping struggling businesses EMMA AND AJ GET TO WORK AJ AJ
NEW MONDAY / W / 8PM / EP 1 of 4 / FACTUAL
Presenters and pals Emma Willis and AJ Odudu have wanted to work together on their own series for a while. And now they’re finally getting the chance as they embark on a mission to help family-run businesses that are struggling to get back on their feet after lockdown.
The new four-part series on W follows the enthusiastic pair as they roll up their sleeves and get stuck in working for a variety of small firms across the country.
Here, Emma,
45, and AJ, 33, currently one of the stars of Strictly
2021, tell us more about their feelgood travelogue…
Why did you want to make this series?
EMMA So many people had their lives disrupted by COVID, and this really highlights the affect it has had on these family-run businesses, and shines a spotlight on their stories. The people we got to meet were really inspiring!
My mum instilled a strong work ethic in me, and it’s been eyeopening seeing the different jobs people have, and the pressures they face. The last few years have been so tough on business, and we loved the opportunity to lend a hand.
Which was your favourite place?
EMMA I’d heard of the Mumbles in Swansea Bay, where we go in episode one, because that’s where Catherine Zeta-jones is from.
I had imagined it being a ‘kissme-quick’ seaside town, and it was like stepping back in time – I loved it!
AJ I enjoyed driving Emma around and watching the changing countryside. I’m not sure she loved my driving!
Did you pick up any handy new skills?
Shearing a sheep – although I’m not sure how handy that will be in day-to-day life! EMMA Who knew that making fish and chips is such an art form? My dad used to peel spuds as a job when he was a kid. Turns out there’s a machine that does it for you! We also learnt how to make candles.
Could candle-making be a new hobby for you both?
AJ When I have a bit of spare time, it could be really relaxing.
EMMA I brought some kits home, and the kids loved them!
What did you enjoy most about making the series?
AJ Working with Emma was so much fun, and I loved being part of a wedding – they always make me cry, and not having been to one while restrictions were in place made it even more special. EMMA It was an amazing wedding, with bands in a field with tepees and a massive marquee – it was like a mini festival! I also enjoyed AJ’S exceptional dance moves in a bear costume on Mumbles Pier!
Tell us about your friendship...
EMMA We met on Big Brother’s Bit on the Side [AJ joined the presenting team in 2013] and worked together on The Voice UK. AJ has the most wonderful brain and she’s incredibly funny. And hasn’t she been phenomenal on Strictly? We have wanted to do something with just the two of us for years.
AJ Emma is the friend you want everyone to have. She’s beautiful inside and out, the perfect shoulder to cry on, kind, smart, funny, charismatic – and a great laugh!
What do you hope viewers will take away from this series?
AJ An example of what is possible if you persevere. There is always light at the end of the tunnel! EMMA Maybe it will inspire people to have a go at running a business. Who knows what might come of it?
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