Strictly fans claim to know 'the truth' about why Kai Widdrington has been 'cheated' of a celebrity...

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Written by Ruth Francis for Mailonline

Posted: 4:09 PM BST, September 15, 2024 | Revised: 7:00 PM BST, September 15, 2024

Fans of Strictly Come Dancing believe they have figured out the true reason behind Kai Widdrington not being partnered with a celebrity this season.

During the launch show on Saturday, it was announced that the dancer, who partnered with Angela Rippon for the 2023 season and reached Blackpool, will be put on the sidelines.

Professional dancers Carlos Gu and Lauren Oakley will also be skipping the celebrity partnerships and will only participate in the group performances.

However, after the initial episode, fans of Strictly suspect that the choice might be influenced by another professional, Neil Jones.

Although Neil, 41, has been a part of the show since 2016, he has become well-known for rarely having a dance partner. Fans now suspect that Kai was sidelined to allow Neil to have his moment in the spotlight, as this might be his final season on the show.

Fans of Strictly Come Dancing believe they have figured out the true reason behind Kai Widdrington not being partnered with a celebrity this season.

Many speculate that it could be attributed to fellow professional Neil Jones, who is partnered with 80s icon Toyah Wilcox.

On Digital Spy's forum for the dance show, fans speculated, "I believe this might be Neil's final appearance if the BBC decides to make some changes among the professional dancers."

I mentioned that one possible explanation for giving him a partner this year might be to help him transition into a new chapter. Unless, of course, he was already considering leaving.

It's unfortunate to see Kai and Lauren sidelined; perhaps they didn't quite click with the celebrities? I’m not shocked that Neil has been paired with Toyah, as she appears to be leaning towards a comedic approach, and Neil could be a good fit for that.

This follows Kai's recent reflections on his experience during the show earlier this week.

He shared with the Daily Star: "Everyone hopes to connect with a celebrity. Unfortunately, it just wasn't meant to be for me this season. There were two guys who didn't get to meet one, and unfortunately, I'm one of them."

For some people, finding a partner doesn’t happen, and that’s just how life goes.

"Let’s wait and see what unfolds next year. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I’ll have one by then."

This year, the competition features an unprecedented mix, with just six women participating alongside nine men—marking a historic moment for the show.

Even though Kai is a popular choice among fans and has teamed up with TV icon Angela Rippon, who is 78 years old, this year he will only take part in group performances. In this image, you can see Angela displaying her amazing flexibility as she stretches her leg overhead during her debut live show.

Fans now think that Kai was sidelined to allow Neil to take the spotlight, especially since this might be Neil's final season. Meanwhile, some argue that he was a more suitable match for Toyah.

Some people speculated that Toyah appeared to be interested in pursuing a comedic direction and thought that Neil would be more suitable for that style.

On the forum for Digital Spy focused on the dance competition, several fans shared their opinions on why Kai felt overlooked.

Earlier this week, Kai shared his thoughts on the show that premiered on Saturday. He mentioned that two boys in the series wouldn't have a partner, and sadly, he was one of them.

This year’s roster features just six women competing alongside nine men, marking a historic first for the show.

The predominately male cast comes on the heels of numerous bullying claims after Amanda Abbington and Zara McDermott shared their experiences during rehearsals.

This year, Giovanni Pernice, 33, and Graziano Di Prima faced accusations of having treated their famous dance partners poorly.

Giovanni has strongly denied any misbehavior, whereas Graziano, who is 30 years old, initially admitted to his actions toward Zara and expressed remorse for them.

The names of the participants taking part in the 22nd season of Strictly, which kicks off in September, were revealed starting on August 5.

This follows the confirmation that a decision regarding the dispute between Giovanni and Amanda Abbington is anticipated to be revealed in the next few days.

The controversy surrounding Strictly began when Sherlock star Amanda left the program in 2023.

She alleged that her dance partner, Giovanni, mistreated her, which ultimately resulted in her decision to leave the show.

In July, Graziano was let go from his position after facing allegations of 'kicking' his well-known dancing partner, Zara McDermott, who is a star from Love Island, during their partnership.

Chris expresses, "If there’s anyone wondering how on earth I plan to pull this off, believe me, I’m asking myself the same question."

Occupation: General Practitioner and Media Presenter

Punam shares, "I've been following Strictly every single year, and this 20th anniversary feels truly special. It's hard to believe that I will be the one experiencing the magic of Strictly!"

Toyah expresses her enthusiasm, saying, "I'm really thrilled and absolutely adore this show. Being involved in it, along with the spray tan and all the glitter, is amazing. This year is significant for me; I've reached retirement age, attended Glastonbury, and now I'm getting spray tans!"

Pete admits, "Performing live in front of the entire country every Saturday? It's absolutely nerve-wracking."

Occupation: Performer and vocalist

Shayne expresses, "I've had my share of experience with live television, but performing Latin and Ballroom dance in front of millions of viewers is on an entirely different scale."

Occupation: Swimmer with an Olympic medal

Tom expresses his enthusiasm by saying, "I’m thrilled to dive into something fresh, connect with amazing individuals, and hit the dance floor!"

Nick expresses, "I'm fully committing to this; I'm going all in with everything I've got!"

Occupation: Former Olympian representing Team GB and now a Gladiator.

Montell expresses his hope that some of his Gladiator dance moves will be useful when performing the Tango or Paso Doble!

JB expresses that many of the ballroom dance styles feel unfamiliar to him since he didn't practice those dances during his upbringing. He mentions that he's not a formally trained dancer.

Wynne explains, "What makes me anxious are the routines that include jumping. I’m not too keen on doing the jive; it really makes me nervous."

Occupation: Fashion model and television personality

Tasha explains, "I've been following the show since childhood—it's a beloved choice for the Ghouri family—so this feels like a complete dream realized."

Sarah expresses her enthusiasm by saying, "I'm really thrilled to be involved in this legendary show as it celebrates its 20th anniversary."

Jamie shares, "I had a fantastic time working on the Christmas special, so when I was invited to be a part of it again, I didn't hesitate to say yes!"

Occupation: Former Great Britain hockey athlete and television host

Sam expressed his relief, saying, "I'm really glad it's finally out in the open; keeping it under wraps has been tough! The gossip was circulating, and I had to be dishonest. I'm accustomed to dancing during girls' nights, but I'll give it my best effort!"

Paul mentions, "I won't stress about it until it actually begins, but when it does, I'm sure I'll feel anxious—I've only danced three times before!"