A LACK of female contestants in the next series of Strictly Come Dancing means some of the most popular male dancers have been benched — including Kai Widdrington. The fan favourite, 29, who was partnered with broadcaster Angela Rippon in the last series, will not be paired with a celebrity this year. 3 Kai Widdrington, pictured with Nadiya Bychkova, will not be paired with a celebrity this year 3 Kai on last year’s series with dance partner Angela Rippon Credit: PA 3 Kai split from fellow pro dancer Nadiya Bychkova in June Credit: PA This year’s Strictly line-up has the fewest female celebrities in the show’s history, with just six women up against nine men.
It is a second blow for Kai after his split from fellow pro dancer Nadiya Bychkova in June. A source said: “Kai has become the first casualty of this year’s male-heavy line-up. “With so few female celebrities it was inevitable that some of the professionals would miss out on a pairing, but it’s a real blow that Kai is one of them.
Read More on TV WALFORD-BOUND EastEnders couple reunite off-screen sparking return rumours SOAPER STAR Corrie's Andy Whyment jumps on stage with band to perform Kings Of Leon track “He had a great run last series with Angela and is a fan favourite. "But, just like last year with Nadiya when she wasn’t given a partner, bosses have to look at a number of factors when choosing which dancer to pair with which celebrity. “They look at everything from height through to chemistry.