AJ Pritchard quits Strictly Come Dancing after 4 years to pursue presenting career

27 March 2020, 12:36

AJ Pritchard quits Strictly Come Dancing after 4 years to pursue presenting career
AJ Pritchard quits Strictly Come Dancing after 4 years to pursue presenting career. Picture: BBC

By Rory O'Connor

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer AJ Pritchard has confirmed he is leaving the show after four years.

In a statement released on his social media, AJ revealed he would now be focusing on pursuing a TV presenting career alongside his brother Curtis.

The 25-year-old wrote on Instagram: “I have some news for you all.

"Please see the below statement from my team. Also sending my love to everyone in this difficult time, please keep safe. AJ x."

Read more: Who is dancer AJ Pritchard? Girlfriend, age and more facts revealed

The statement then read: "After four years on Strictly Come Dancing, AJ has decided the time is right to leave the show and follow his dreams to explore opportunities in the presenting world alongside his brother Curtis.

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"AJ would like to thank the team at Strictly and everyone at the BBC for giving him such a brilliant opportunity.

"AJ would also like to send his love and gratitude to all who have followed and supported his career.

"He is excited for you all to join him on the next chapter of his journey."

AJ Pritchard and his brother Curtis performing on Sport Relief 2020
AJ Pritchard and his brother Curtis performing on Sport Relief 2020. Picture: BBC

Meet Curtis Pritchard, the pro dancer turned Love Island contestant

AJ and his younger brother Curtis, who was a finalist on Love Island 2019, appeared together as dance coaches on RuPaul's Drag Race UK and also launched a Dance Along challenge for Sport Relief.

On Strictly 2019, AJ was partnered with YouTuber Saffron Barker, with the pair making it to week 10 of the competition.

In previous years, AJ has been partnered with Paralympian Lauren Steadman, singer Mollie King and Olympic gymnast Claudia Fragapane.