AJ Pritchard has quit Strictly Come Dancing after four years

AJ Pritchard has left Strictly Come Dancing after four years.

The professional dancer confirmed the news in a statement on his Twitter account on Thursday afternoon. "I have some news for you all. Please see the below statement from my team  also sending my love to everyone in this difficult time, please keep safe," he began the post. The statement read:

“After four years on Strictly Come Dancing, AJ has decided the time is right to leave the show and follow his dreams to explore opportunities in the presenting world alongside his brother Curtis. "AJ would like to thank the team at Strictly and everyone at the BBC for giving him such a brilliant opportunity. AJ would also like to send his love and gratitude to all who have followed and supported his career. "He is excited for you all to join him on the next chapter of his journey."

I have some news for you all. Please see the below statement from my team ? also sending my love to everyone in this difficult time, please keep safe. AJ x pic.twitter.com/Z3jG5ItepP

— AJ Pritchard (@Aj11Ace) March 26, 2020

A spokesperson for the show praised AJ as a "brilliant dancer" who will be "missed by fans and the Strictly family." The news come after the BBC revealed the line-up of professional dancers confirmed to be taking part in this year's season of the popular dance show. AJ was included on the list at the time. Earlier this month, Kevin Clifton also announced he would be leaving Strictly Come Dancing - you can read more about that here.