STRICTLY fans up and down the UK have been left in shock after AJ Pritchard revealed he has hung up his dancing shoes on the show.
The ballroom dancer has sensationally quit the BBC series – and here’s why…
Why has AJ Pritchard quit Strictly Come Dancing?
Strictly Come Dancing professional AJ Pritchard has announced he is leaving the BBC1 show after four years on the series.
The dancer joined the show back in 2016 when he was just 21.
The Stoke-on-Trent-born star has quit the prime-time show to focus on personal projects.
This includes working with his brother, and fellow dancer, Curtis.
What has AJ Pritchard said about quitting Strictly Come Dancing?
AJ also posted a statement on Twitter for his fans.
He wrote: “I have some news for you all. Please see the below statement from my team, also sending my love to everyone in this difficult time, please keep safe. AJ x .
“After four years on Strictly Come Dancing, AJ has decided the time is right to leave the show and follow his dreams to explore opportunities in the presenting world alongside his brother Curtis. AJ would like to thank the team at Strictly and everyone at the BBC for giving him such a brilliant opportunity. AJ would also like to send his love and gratitude to all who have followed and supported his career. He is excited for you all to join him on the next chapter of his journey.”
What are AJ Pritchard’s Strictly highlights?
AJ joined Strictly in 2016 as one of their new professional dancers.
For the first series he was paired with gymnast Chloe Frangapane, and came fourth on the show.
In 2017, he was partnered with Mollie King and reached the semi finals.
Next the dancer was paired with Laura Steadman in 2018 and they came 5th.
His last series in 2019 saw him and YouTube star Saffron Barker eliminated on week 10, making this the first series where AJ failed to reach the semi-final.
