With the Strictly Come Dancing 2021 final just a day away, one couple has sadly had to withdraw from the competition.
AJ Odudu and Kai Widdrington were due to compete in the final on Saturday, but due to an injury that has left AJ on crutches, it isn't to be.
The 33-year-old admitted that she felt "frustrated and upset" about the injury which she incurred with just days to go before the final dances.
READ MORE: AJ Odudu issues statement as she pulls out of Strictly Come Dancing final
In a statement, confirming her exit from the show, she said: "I've done all I can possibly do to get back on my feet for the @bbcstrictly Final, I even asked the docs if I could perform in a medical moonboot!
"But the fact is, I can't stand on my feet let alone dance because I've torn my spring ligament.
"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.
"You're the best @kaiwidd and I know you were ready to be my human crutch on that dancefloor come tomorrow night. Gutted!"
During an interview with GMB hosts Ben Shephard Ben Shephard and Charlotte Hawkins on Friday, judge Craig Revel Horwood joked that Charlotte could "step in for AJ".
Strictly host Tess Daly later told ITV’s This Morning: “We are hoping and praying [AJ] is going to be recovered fully in order to dance on Saturday night."
With the couples having rightfully earned a place in the final, it doesn't seem likely that AJ and Kai will be replaced at this late stage.
Though, as the saying goes, the show must go on.
Strictly bosses have since confirmed that Saturday night's final will still take place.
Sarah James, Strictly Come Dancing 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.”
The Strictly Come Dancing final will take place on Saturday, December 18 on BBC One at 7pm
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