Strictly bosses thrown last minute set back after AJ's departure leaves gap in schedule

Strictly Come Dancing producers have seen their carefully crafted show finale suffering a devastating set back after the shock departure of AJ Odudu and Kai Widdington.

Fans of the BBC dance competition have been eagerly awaiting the show's competition climax to see which stars will lift the all important Glitter Ball trophy.

But after AJ's sustained a foot injury during training she has taken medical advice and her and partner Kai have withdrawn from the competition.

The duo's exit has left Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice and John Whaite and Johannes Radebe the only couples left in the competition.

And the sad loss of contestants means the show's producers will now be tasked to look at the gaps in the show created by the loss of the contestants.

AJ Odudu had hoped to recover for the final but has taken medical advice before pulling out (Instagram)

But a BBC spokeswoman reassured fans telling The Mirror: "The show format will look the same as it would have done just with only two couples."

The latest loss comes as Strictly Come Dancing finals in previous years have featured four couples but this year's was already cut back to three due to Robert Webb's early exit from the competition.

And now with AJ and Kai gone the final will of course feature just the two remaining couples who have been practising three dances to perform – a previous routine of their choice, one selected by the judges and their showdance.

One fan posted: "Oh no absolutely devastating news!! a big loss to the final for sure!

Another added: "Oh this is very sad news for all #Strictly fans. AJ and Kai have been absolutely incredible this season. Wishing AJ the speediest of recoveries."

A third added: ''So sorry for AJ and Kai they have been blooming brilliant the final is not going to be the same without you both. ''You are already winners and Thank You AJ and Kai for the last 13 weeks.

Former Strictly star Denise Van Outen also reacted with a breaking heart emoji adding: "I love them."

Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice vow Strictly final will be 'a celebration of their relationship' (BBC/Guy Levy)

Johannes Radebe and John Whaite will be looking to lift the Glitter Ball after weeks of hard work (BBC)

In a statement, the BBC series said: ‘Sadly due to injury AJ and Kai have had to withdraw from #Strictly and won’t compete in tomorrow’s final.

"We want to thank them for 13 incredible weeks on the show and the pure joy they brought to the dance floor every week."

The Strictly Come Dancing 2021 final is set to air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer tomorrow, December 18 at 7pm.