BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Kai Widdrington breaks silence on partner snub
Strictly sensation Kai Widdrington has expressed disappointment as he reveals he won't be competing in the new series. The professional dancer, unfortunately, isn't paired with a celebrity this time and will be consigned to group performances for the 20th anniversary series.
Speaking to the Daily Star about the setback, he confided: "Everyone wants to get a celebrity. Unfortunately it wasn't my time this series.
"Two boys couldn't have one this series and sadly I am one of them. Some of us don't get partners and that's the way it is. Let's see what happens next year. Hopefully I'll get one then."
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Despite the snub, Kai remains upbeat about the upcoming series which premieres this weekend on BBC One. He assures that the show will be packed with top-notch entertainment. He went on to say: "The line-up of celebs this year is amazing. It is going to be a fantastic series, as it always is.
"We have been filming a lot of the group routines. There are some amazing ones. We have worked really hard through the summer to get them ready for the series. One of the ones I feature in is very funny."
Last year, Kai captured hearts with his partnership with Angela Rippon. They impressed the audience immensely, even though she was the oldest ever contestant to hit the dance floor.
Kai reflected: "No one expected Angela to be so brilliant. We used that to our advantage and utilised our assets. We are still the best of friends. She is a mate."
Strictly enthusiasts voiced their heartbreak upon learning Kai has not been assigned a celebrity partner for the season. One fan expressed their sorrow, stating: "Gutted Kai isn't getting a partner this year. He's an absolutely sweetheart and surely is a great ambassador for #Strictly after the recent controversies".
Another fan aired their dismay: "If it's true Kai has been benched this year I will be absolutely devastated". Meanwhile, a third lamented: "No way! ! Kai is one of the best and a true gent; I think the Strictly shine is tarnishing before our eyes! ".