Strictly's AJ Odudu and Kai Widdrington pull out of 2021 final

Strictly Come Dancing finalists AJ Odudu and Kai Widdrington have pulled out of tomorrow evening's (December 18) finale.

AJ suffered an ankle injury during rehearsals this week, though the show has sadly confirmed that she has had to withdraw on the advice of medical professionals.

"I'm deeply upset that I am unable to perform in the final due to a torn ligament in my right ankle," AJ said. "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.

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"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. Good luck to my partners in dance, John & Johannes and Rose and Giovanni. I will be cheering you on (on one leg!)"

Kai added: "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 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.

"I know we will be friends for life and I will be there for her through her recovery in whatever way I can. I want to wish good luck to John and Johannes and Rose and Giovanni for the final. And finally the biggest thank you to everyone who voted for us throughout the series, your support has been unforgettable."

Sarah James, Strictly Come Dancing's executive producer, 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 over the last few months.

"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."

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AJ and Kai have since posted about the exit on Instagram, receiving a flood of support in the process.

Fellow finalist John Whaite replied: "Devastated for you both, and I'm so sorry this has happened for you guys. You deserve to be there with us, you've worked so bloody hard and have been such great friends throughout this madness. Love you".

Professional Giovanni Pernice added: "Sending you my love!! you both should be proud of what you have created this year on the dance floor.. pure magic every single week!"

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Judge Motsi Mabuse said: "You can be so proud of yourself!!! Well done sorry it didn't work out".

AJ and Kai's withdrawal means that remaining finalists Rose Ayling-Ellis and John Whaite and professional partners Giovanni Pernice and Johannes Radebe will battle it out for the Glitterball Trophy.

Strictly Come Dancing 2021 airs on Saturday nights on BBC One, with results shows every Sunday. Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights at 6.30pm on BBC Two.