Sara Davies took to Instagram on Saturday to share how ‘absolutely distraught’ she is that AJ Odudu has been ‘robbed’ of a place in the Strictly Come Dancing final.
Dragon’s Den’s star 37-year-old, who was voted off the show’s eighth week, wore a sad expression as he posed alongside AJ who used crutches with a boot to protect him.
After suffering ligament injury to her foot this week, her TV host friend, aged 33, had to withdraw from the contest. She was unable to stand and could not walk.
Tragic: Sara Davies (left) took to Instagram on Saturday to share how ‘absolutely distraught’ she is that AJ Odudu (right) has pulled out of the Strictly Come Dancing final
Sara wrote in her caption: ‘Can I just say how absolutely distraught I am for this one…….
‘She’s been absolutely robbed of a place in the strictly final and I am totally devastated for her, but she’s got her head held high and still out there supporting the other finalists in the way that only AJ could and she’s flipping amazing!
“Love her! #strictly #strictlycomedancing @bbcstrictly @ajodudu.’
On AJ’s second follow-up video, Sara greets her at the Hilton Hotel with a greeting of “She’s Back!”
Frustrating: The Dragon’s Den star, 37, who vas voted out of the competition in week eight, pulled a sad expression while posing alongside her TV host pal, 33, who used crutches and a protective boot
Pals: A follow-up video saw AJ hobbling her way into a Hilton Hotel while Sara greeted her with an announcement of, ‘She’s back!’
She’s on the mend: After suffering ligament injury to her foot this week, the contestant pulled out of Friday’s competition.
Upset: She wrote in her caption: ‘Can I just say how absolutely distraught I am for this one…….’
Star, 26-year old Kai Widdrington was reported to be her boyfriend. She was later seen departing her London hotel for her last rehearsals, one day ahead of the Strictly final.
AJ – who was said to have received treatment Wednesday – cannot put weight on her feet and had hoped to participate in the final, but decided to withdraw.
AJ released the following statement, after speaking with doctors: “I am very upset about being unable to participate in the finals due to a tear ligament in my right foot.”
Sad news: AJ, after consulting with medical professionals, stated that he was unable to participate in the final because of a ruptured ligament in his right ankle.
“Learning how to dance the 13 weeks that have passed has been an immense honor. It’s also been a privilege to share this experience with Kai. He is a patient, dedicated and kind person.
“Thanks to all at Strictly for giving me this experience. The medical team and the Strictly Family for helping me get back on my feet. And, most importantly, everyone who watched and supported. It was a memorable experience.
“Strictly Come Dancing” was a dream of mine for a long time. I am so happy it is now a reality. John, Johannes, Rose and Giovanni, my dance partners: Good Luck! You can count on me cheering you (on one foot!)
Oh! Oh no!
For the Glitterball Trophy, the final live will feature John Whaite (John Radebe), Rose Ayling Ellis (Rose Ayling Ellis) and Giovanni Pernice.
Kai Widdrington, dance partner said that it was an honor to have been able to perform with the amazing AJ Odudu over the past few months.
AJ’s safety and health are the most important aspects of our journey, even though neither one of us intended for it to end in this manner.
AJ is the greatest partner I could ask for during my first year. It was a great experience and will be cherished forever.
“I’m sure we will remain friends throughout our lives and I will continue to support her during her recovery. John, Johannes, Rose and Giovanni I wish them all the best for their final.
“And, finally, the greatest thank you for everyone who voted to support us through the series. It has been an unforgettable experience.”
Tragic: AJ had been hoping to compete alongside her dance partner and rumoured boyfriend Kai Widdrington in Saturday’s live final