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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Brogan-Leigh Hurst

AJ Pritchard's mum says he quit Strictly because his 'light is shining bright'

Strictly star AJ Pritchard 's mum Debi declared her son quit the show because "his light is burning bright" and he needs to share his talents with the world.

AJ, 25, quit the BBC show last week after four years in the cast, and he is now looking to launch a new career as a TV presenter with his younger brother Curtis.

The professional dancer's mother has now weighed in on the reasons why AJ gave up his coveted slot on the show.

The dancer was joined by his Love Island   star brother, and his parents Debi and Adrian for a chat on Lorraine today.

The chirpy family-of-four were live on the daytime show via a video call as they self-isolate at their family home in Cheshire.

Lorraine, 60, who was eager to find out more about AJ's Strictly quit and his next move, asked the star: "It's a whole new chapter for you, isn't it?"

The dancer was joined by his brother and parents (ITV)

After being on the show for four years, he explained that he wants to pursue a presenting career with Curtis, and that he was unable to do everything on offer while being tied-up on Strictly.

He admitted there are "so many opportunities" he'd like to take on board, with his mum adding: "We'll still always support Strictly Come Dancing, but we'll also support AJ and the decision that he's made."

AJ spoke about a presenting career with Curtis (ITV)
He's going to miss the BBC show, but is excited for new opportunities (ITV)

She revealed: "It is the right decision. His light is burning bright and he needs to use all that energy to explore."

Debi admitted it will help him "grow as a person" and can share his talents with the public.

AJ said he will "definitely miss" the first day of Strictly when he meets the celebrities, as they are "so nervous".

Revealing filming secrets, he said it's shot several times as they never know what to do, and sometimes even forget their own name.

*Lorraine airs weekdays on ITV

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