AJ Pritchard quits Strictly Come Dancing

AJ Pritchard has quit ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The 25-year-old star – who has appeared as a pro on the BBC Latin and ballroom show since 2016 – has confirmed plans to step away from the programme and focus on presenting jobs with his 24-year-old brother Curtis.
In a statement, his team revealed: "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.
"AJ woud 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."
Alongside the statement, AJ took the opportunity to send his best wishes to everyone amid the coronavirus pandemic.
He wrote: "Sending my love to everyone in this difficult time, please keep safe. AJ x (sic)"
Both siblings have been open about wanting to work and perform together in the future, and Curtis had joined his brother on his ‘AJ Live’ tour before the remaining dates were postponed due to the current crisis.
Meanwhile, AJ’s announcement comes after former co-star Kevin Clifton also revealed his own departure from ‘Strictly’.
He previously said: "Since first being called Kevin From Grimsby by Sir Bruce Forsyth in 2013 I have experienced the highs of 5 finals, winning a Guinness World record on ‘It Takes Two’, the Strictly Arena tour glitterball and then the ultimate of winning the 2018 series with Stacey Dooley.
"After finishing last series with the ‘Children In Need’ trophy and the Christmas Special I want to leave on a high and have therefore decided the time has come to move on and focus on other areas of my life and career."