AJ Odudu says 'Strictly' romance rumours have scared off real suitors

AJ Odudu has said rumours of a romance with her Strictly partner Kai Widdrington have scared off any real suitors.

The TV presenter has been linked to pro dancer Widdrington thanks to their chemistry on the BBC ballroom contest, where they have made it to the semi-final.

And Odudu told The Sun that her love life has taken a real hit as a result of all the gossip.

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“Oh my gosh, my direct messages are dry,” she said.

“I’ve not had one direct message from a potential suitor, that is not happening.”

The 33-year-old – who is known for TV programmes such as Big Brother’s Bit On The Side and the junior version of The Voice - said she understands why her performances on the dancefloor might put off anyone thinking of asking her out.

“He’s witnessed me wrap my legs around Kai every single week!” she said.

Odudu recently opened up about how she has been thorough heartache in the past and wants to be sure before she leaps into any new relationship.

Speaking to the Mail On Sunday's You magazine, she said: "I’ve always been quite open about the fact that I’m single.

"But because I’ve suffered so much heartache in previous relationships – and have been cheated on – when it comes to romance I’m definitely not the sort of person to just jump into something."

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This weekend’s Strictly semi-final will see the remaining couples perform two routines.

Odudu and Widdrington will dance a Rumba to Show Me Heaven by Maria McKee and will then speed things up with a Quickstep to Sing, Sing, Sing by Benny Goodman.

Watch: Dan and Nadiya are eliminated from Strictly