AJ Odudu has announced her first TV role since being forced to pull out of Strictly Come Dancing with a foot injury.
The 33-year-old will host the new series of gruelling channel 4 reality show The Bridge, which sees two teams compete to win a £200,000 cash prize.
Set in a tropical location, the eight-part show will follow the teams as they will race to build a bridge over 1,000ft of water in just 12 days to reach the cash held at the top of ‘Fortune Rock’.
But will whoever reaches the money first choose to share it with their teammates - or will they keep it for themselves? Viewers will have to tune in to find out.
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AJ will present the second series of The Bridge alongside record-breaking extreme adventurer Aldo Kane.
Speaking of her excitement at her new hosting job, AJ said: “The opportunity to front The Bridge has happened almost serendipitously.
"From the Strictly Ballroom I have taken off onto my next, new adventure. Literally.
“It's so exciting to front a show that promises to push the envelope and I know The Bridge is going to be bold, full of excitement and filled with plenty of drama. Bring it on.”
The TV presenter was devastated when she hurt her foot in the last week of Strictly Come Dancing.
This meant AJ and professional dance partner Kai Widdrington had to gracefully bow out of the competition just 24 hours before the final.
At the time a heartbroken AJ said: “I am unable to perform in the final due to a torn ligament in my right ankle.
“Learning to dance over the last 13 weeks has been an incredible honour and to do it alongside someone as special, patient and devoted as Kai is something I’ll treasure forever.”
Due to her injury, AJ was also unable to join Kai and the rest of the Strictly cast on their UK tour, which kicked off a few days ago.
EastEnders star Maisie Smith, who reached the 2020 final of the show, has stepped in instead.
Reports claim AJ is finding it difficult seeing her Strictly partner Kai with someone else on tour.
The pair were romantically linked, but now rumours are swirling Kai is dating fellow professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova, although this hasn't been confirmed by either side.
In a statement, AJ said: "I had hoped for one last dance with Kai, but I must obviously follow the medical advice. I wish my Strictly family the very best of luck on the road and I’ll definitely be there to cheer them on."
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