Kai Widdrington is a rising star in the world of dance, particularly known for his appearances on Strictly Come Dancing. Since joining the show in 2021, he has captured the hearts of viewers and is set to return for the next series as one of the professional dancers. Let’s delve deeper into the life and career of this talented dancer.
Early Life and Career
Kai Widdrington’s journey in the world of dance began at a young age when he took up dancing at the tender age of nine. His passion and dedication to the art form soon paid off, as by the time he was 14, he had already become the 2010 World Junior Latin-American champion. This early success laid the foundation for what would become a flourishing career in the world of dance.
At just 16 years old, Kai Widdrington made waves by reaching the final of the sixth series of Britain’s Got Talent. This exposure on a popular talent show helped showcase his talent to a wider audience and solidified his place in the industry. Following his stint on Britain’s Got Talent, Kai went on to work as a professional dancer on Dancing With The Stars Ireland, where he finished as a runner-up twice in 2018 and 2020.
Transition to Strictly Come Dancing
Kai’s transition to the UK version of Strictly Come Dancing came as a result of DWTS Ireland 2021 being axed due to rising Covid figures. This shift opened up new opportunities for Kai, who was announced as one of four new professional dancers on the popular dance competition show in July 2021. For Kai, being a part of Strictly was a childhood dream come true, as he expressed his excitement at stepping onto the dance floor and experiencing the thrills that lie ahead.
Throughout his time on Strictly Come Dancing, Kai has been paired with various celebrity contestants, showcasing his versatility and skill as a dancer. His partnerships have garnered attention and praise from fans of the show, further solidifying his place as a fan-favorite professional dancer.
Personal Life and Relationships
While Kai Widdrington’s professional life has been filled with success and accolades, his personal life has also garnered attention, particularly due to his relationships with fellow dancers. In 2016, Kai began a relationship with professional dancer Giulia Dotta, whom he met during his time on Dancing With The Stars. The couple’s relationship lasted for five years before they decided to part ways, with reports suggesting that the split occurred several months before their public announcement.
Following his split from Giulia Dotta, Kai entered into a relationship with Strictly pro Nadiya Bychkova. The couple’s romance blossomed while competing against each other on the show, but unfortunately, they announced their split in July 2024. Despite the challenges of touring and the pressures of performing, Kai and Nadiya remain close and committed to maintaining a professional relationship.
Strictly Come Dancing Partnerships
Throughout his time on Strictly Come Dancing, Kai Widdrington has been paired with various celebrity contestants, each partnership bringing its own challenges and triumphs. In his first year on the show, Kai danced with TV presenter AJ Odudu, with the duo making it to the final before having to withdraw due to AJ’s leg injury. Despite rumors of a romance between the two, Kai and AJ maintained a professional relationship and focused on their performances.
In subsequent seasons, Kai danced with celebrities such as Kaye Adams and Angela Rippon, showcasing his adaptability and skill as a dancer. Each partnership presented its own unique set of challenges, but Kai’s dedication and talent shone through, earning him praise from both viewers and judges alike.
As Kai Widdrington prepares to return for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing, fans eagerly anticipate the dynamic performances and captivating routines he will bring to the dance floor. With his passion for dance and undeniable talent, Kai is sure to continue captivating audiences and solidifying his place as one of the show’s standout professional dancers.