Former 'Strictly Come Dancing' professional AJ Pritchard has embarked on an unexpected career path, transitioning from the glitz of the ballroom to a presenting role on GB News. This move comes after his aspirations for broader showbiz stardom, particularly alongside his brother Curtis, did not materialize as anticipated. His recent foray into news broadcasting has generated considerable public and internal discussion, highlighting a significant pivot in his professional journey.
Pritchard's departure from 'Strictly Come Dancing' in 2020 was widely publicized, with the dancer expressing a desire to pursue new ventures in entertainment. At the time, fueled by a successful stint on the BBC One show and a strong fan following, he envisioned becoming a major television personality. There were even plans for him and his younger brother, Curtis, to form a presenting duo, drawing comparisons to established duos like Ant and Dec. Both brothers had gained considerable public profiles: AJ as a popular 'Strictly' dancer, and Curtis through his appearance on 'Love Island' and subsequent projects.
However, their joint efforts in areas such as acting, including a much-criticized cameo on 'Hollyoaks,' failed to achieve the widespread acclaim they had hoped for. Critics dismissed their acting as amateurish, and the dream of becoming a leading television double act did not materialize. While Curtis continued to participate in reality television, AJ's career trajectory became more diverse, encompassing reality TV appearances on shows like 'I'm A Celebrity' and 'Celebrity SAS,' and even a run on the US show 'Dancing With The Stars: The Next Pro.' During his time on the US dance show, a public disagreement involving his fiancée, Zara Zoffany, and his dance partner, Rylee Arnold, further complicated his professional image.
His latest role as a co-host on GB News's 'The Saturday Five' marks a notable departure from his entertainment roots. The show, described as a blend of debate and opinion, has a significantly smaller viewership compared to his previous platforms. His initial performances have reportedly drawn internal criticism, with some colleagues questioning his suitability for the role. Furthermore, this shift to a right-leaning news channel has potentially alienated a portion of his established fan base, particularly those from the LGBTQ+ community who supported him through his appearances in gay magazines and on 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK.'
AJ Pritchard now stands at a pivotal point in his career. Once a prominent figure in mainstream entertainment, his current path on GB News represents a strategic but potentially isolating move. The success of this new direction remains to be seen, as he endeavors to carve out a sustainable career in a landscape far removed from the dance floor where he first found fame.
