Dancing with the Stars professional Kai Widdrington has bagged an exciting new role on the Strictly Come Dancing team.
He’ll be taking part in their live tour, busting a move alongside some of the biggest names from the hit UK show.
Just a few of those involved include Diane Buswell, Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez and Neil Jones.
Taking to social media, Kai shared a new team pic and wrote, “I’m thrilled to announce that I will be part of this incredible show the ‘Strictly Pro Tour’ coming to theatres in 2021. See you there! Keeeeeep dancing!”
View this post on Instagram
The news comes shortly after it was revealed Dancing with the Stars would not be returning to Irish screens until at least 2022.
Due to restrictions surrounding Covid-19 and concerns for the health and well-being of everyone involved, show bosses decided to push it back.
Commenting on the decision, John McHugh, RTÉ’s Head of Entertainment said: “We are extremely disappointed not to be in a position to produce series five of Dancing with the Stars in 2021.
“After much discussion, we feel the risks are too high with a production of this scale to proceed with the series in 2021 and we hope to revisit the show in 2022.”
He continued, “We understand that the many fans of the series will be disappointed with this decision. However, given the unprecedented challenges posed by Covid-19 and our duty of care, we believe this decision is the right one.
“We will continue to work with Larry Bass and ShinAwiL on other projects and will be conducting ongoing discussions with them and the BBC to try and bring back Dancing with the Stars in 2022.”
Saddened by the news, DWTS hosts, professional dancers and past participants took to social media to share their heartbreak.
Nicky Byrne said, “It’s an incredible show to be a part of and I have had so many brilliant times co-hosting over the four seasons, however, I fully understand the decision taken and in order to protect our wonderful little country we must make these sacrifices.
“Safety of our crew, each other and our front-line workers is always the priority. The current climate has thrown up many challenges and COVID 19 has affected every corner of society.
“My thoughts are now with the crew who work on the show and find themselves in uncertainty. The stylists, make up artists, dancers, camera crew, producers, choreographers, caterers, audio, graphics – the list is endless. Let’s hope we can all get through this as soon as possible and enjoy some positivity down the road.”
Lottie Ryan won the latest season of the show with Pasquale La Rocca, added, “I am heartbroken for all my DWTS family this evening at the news the show will not be returning this year due to COVID-19.
“This show brought so much joy into my life and allowed me to work with the most incredible cast and crew. From meeting my amazing partner Pasquale to the amazing pro dancers, the creative team, production, costume and lighting. Our TVs won’t sparkle quite as much this year, but, I hope they’ll be back next year.”