Kai Widdrington, better known as Kai from Strictly Come Dancing, is a British professional dancer and choreographer who joined the BBC show in 2021. Born on August 23, 1995, he is 31 years old as of November 2026. From winning a junior world dance championship to performing alongside well-known celebrities, Kai has built a successful television career. His dancing achievements, relationships, and Strictly partnerships have made him a familiar face among British entertainment fans.
Kai Strictly | Profile Summary
| Profile Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kai Widdrington |
| Popular Name | Kai Strictly |
| Date of Birth | August 23, 1995 |
| Age | 31 years (2026) |
| Birthplace | Southampton, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Professional Dancer and Choreographer |
| Height | Approximately 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Father | Tommy Widdrington |
| Brother | Theo Widdrington |
| Relationship Status | Dating Chloe Wells (reported) |
| Known For | Strictly Come Dancing |
| @kaiwidd |
Who Is Kai Widdrington?
Kai Widdrington is an English ballroom and Latin dancer who gained widespread recognition through Strictly Come Dancing. He joined the programme in July 2021 after previously competing on Britain’s Got Talent and working as a professional dancer on Ireland’s Dancing with the Stars.
His career combines competitive dance achievements, television performances, choreography, and live theatre productions.
Kai Widdrington’s Age and Early Life
Kai was born on August 23, 1995, in Southampton, England. He grew up in a sporting family and initially considered pursuing professional football.
However, his interest in dancing developed when he began taking lessons at around nine years old. His dedication soon produced impressive results.
At just 14, Kai won the 2010 Junior World Latin American Championship, establishing himself as a talented young competitive dancer.
Kai Widdrington’s Family
Kai’s father, Tommy Widdrington, is a former professional footballer and football manager. He played for several English clubs, including Southampton and Grimsby Town.
His younger brother, Theo Widdrington, also pursued professional football.
Although Kai originally considered following the family’s sporting tradition, he eventually chose ballroom dancing. His athletic upbringing helped develop the discipline and competitive attitude that became important throughout his career.
Kai Widdrington’s Dancing Career
Kai first attracted national attention in 2012 when he reached the Britain’s Got Talent final as part of the dance duo Kai and Natalia. He returned in 2014 with the ballroom group Kings and Queens, reaching the semifinals.
He later joined Dancing with the Stars Ireland, appearing as a professional between 2017 and 2020.
During his time on the Irish programme, Kai reached the final twice, in 2018 and 2020. His television experience helped prepare him for the demanding routines and celebrity partnerships of Strictly.
Kai on Strictly Come Dancing
Kai joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2021, fulfilling a childhood ambition. His first celebrity partner was television presenter AJ Odudu, and they quickly became one of the season’s strongest couples.
Unfortunately, AJ suffered an ankle injury shortly before the final, forcing them to withdraw.
Despite this disappointment, Kai’s debut established him as a popular professional dancer. His performances demonstrated strong choreography, ballroom technique, and the ability to help celebrity contestants improve.
Kai Widdrington’s Strictly Partners
Kai has danced with several celebrities since joining the BBC competition.
| Year | Celebrity Partner | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | AJ Odudu | Finalist; withdrew due to injury |
| 2022 | Kaye Adams | First eliminated |
| 2023 | Angela Rippon | Reached Week 9 |
| 2024 | No celebrity partner | Professional performances |
| 2025 | Vicky Pattison | Competed in the main series |
| 2026 | Delta Goodrem | Competing as of November 1 |
His partnership with Angela Rippon was particularly memorable. The veteran broadcaster competed at 79 and impressed audiences with her flexibility, confidence, and entertaining performances.
Has Kai Widdrington Won Strictly?
Kai has not won the main Strictly Come Dancing series, although he came close with AJ Odudu in 2021.
However, he has won the Strictly Christmas special twice. His first victory came with actress Alexandra Mardell in 2022.
He won again in 2024 alongside drag performer Tayce. Their cha-cha-cha earned a perfect score of 40 points, making it another memorable achievement in his television career.
Who Is Kai Widdrington’s Girlfriend?
Kai has previously been in relationships with professional dancers Giulia Dotta and Nadiya Bychkova.
He dated Giulia for approximately five years before their separation in 2021. Kai later began a relationship with fellow Strictly professional Nadiya in 2022, but they separated in July 2024.
In April 2025, Kai publicly confirmed his relationship with Chloe Wells, an executive assistant from Essex. The couple have since appeared together in social media updates.
Kai is not known to be married and has no reported children.
Kai Widdrington’s Height and Appearance
Kai stands approximately 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall. His athletic build, dark hair, and confident ballroom presence make him easily recognizable on television.
Years of dance training have helped him develop the strength, coordination, flexibility, and stamina needed for demanding professional performances.
Kai Widdrington’s Net Worth
Kai earns money through television appearances, professional dancing, choreography, and live theatre performances.
His work on Strictly and international dance competitions has also helped him establish a wider entertainment career.
Although celebrity websites publish varying estimates of his net worth, his personal financial details do not provide a dependable basis for a precise figure.
Tours and Career Achievements
Beyond television, Kai launched his Kai: Evolution dance tour in 2025. The production combined ballroom and Latin choreography with theatrical performances and music.
He also achieved a Guinness World Record in December 2024 by completing 15 valid cha-cha-cha Time Steps in 30 seconds during Strictly: It Takes Two.
These achievements highlight his success beyond the main Strictly competition.
Kai Strictly’s Latest Updates
In 2026, Kai partnered with Australian singer Delta Goodrem on Strictly Come Dancing.
Their performances attracted positive attention, although Delta suffered a fractured rib during rehearsals and missed one competition week.
She returned to the dancefloor and scored 34 points for a rumba. During Halloween Week on October 31, the pair performed an Addams Family-themed Viennese waltz, earning 33 out of 40 points.
Their partnership remained active heading into the November 1 results show.
Kai Widdrington’s Social Media
Kai shares dance performances, rehearsal clips, personal updates, and behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram.
His official account is @kaiwidd, where followers can keep up with his Strictly appearances and live performances.
Conclusion
Kai Widdrington has built an impressive career through competitive ballroom dancing, television appearances, and live performances. From winning a junior world championship to becoming a familiar Strictly professional, his achievements reflect years of dedication.
His partnerships with AJ Odudu, Angela Rippon, and Delta Goodrem remain important highlights of his television journey, while his Christmas special victories demonstrate his continued success on the dancefloor.
FAQs
How old is Kai from Strictly?
Kai Widdrington is 31 years old as of November 2026. He was born on August 23, 1995.
How tall is Kai Widdrington?
Kai is approximately 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall.
Who is Kai Strictly’s girlfriend?
Kai has been dating Chloe Wells since 2025, according to published reports.
Is Kai Widdrington married?
Kai is not known to be married. His previous relationships include Nadiya Bychkova and Giulia Dotta.
Has Kai Widdrington won Strictly?
Kai has won two Strictly Christmas specials, in 2022 and 2024, but has not won the main series.
