16 December 2023 , 10:30
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Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Kai Widdrington has announced a huge career change ahead of his return to the BBC competition this evening.
Kai, 28, will reunite with Angela Rippon at Elstree tonight for the final after they were eliminated at Blackpool when they landed in the bottom two with Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell. They will return to the dance floor alongside other eliminated couples as a new Glitterball champion is announced.
But it looks like Kai has been very busy away from the BBC show as he revealed that he has become the British Dancesport Association's Director of Engagement and Education. Announcing the news on Instagram, he wrote: "Delighted to be a part of the future of British ballroom and latin dancing."
He went on to address the Strictly finalists, telling his followers: "Good morning everyone. It's been a long time since I've done one of these. I just want to say thank you everyone for all the support throughout the season, it's coming to an end today, it's the Strictly final and I want to wish all the luck in the world to all three finalists.
Strictly pro Kai Widdrington has been busy behind the scenes (Instagram)"Firstly, to the pros who have done a fantastic job with each of their partners this season and of course to Bobby, Layton and Ellie. All deserved winners in my opinon. But whoever takes home the Glitterball is a deserved winner in my opinion. I think they're going to be absolutely fantastic tonight, I've heard the dances are unbelievable and definitely worth tuning in tonight. So enjoy at home and enjoy the final."
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Kai shared his career news on Instagram
Kai will reunite with Angela this evening (PA)For the final, the contestants will perform three dances; one selected by the judges, one chosen by the couple themselves and a third 'showdance'. Corrie star Ellie is now the clear favourite to clinch the title this evening at 1/8. Trailing much further behind are Layton and Nikita at 9/1 and then Bobby and Dianne at 10/1. Betfred showbiz specialist, Kayley Cornelius said: “With 1/8 odds, punters now think Ellie Leach and dance partner Vito Coppola are unstoppable – week after week the pair never fail to impress the judges and viewers at home, and there’s no doubting she will definitely bring a fierce competition to the final and ultimately take home the Glitterball trophy.
"Although, the position for runner up may be a tougher call with Bobby on 10/1 odds to win, and Layton on 8/1 odds to win. Throughout the series, both couples have proved they’re capable of bringing a top-notch performance, so it will be a battle of minute details when crowing the second-place winner."
*Strictly Final airs tonight at 7pm on BBC One