Strictly pro Kai Widdrington caught telling partner AJ Odudu ‘I love you’ after romance rumours

STRICTLY professional Kai Widdrington was caught telling dance partner AJ Odudu that he "loves" her following romance rumours.

The bubbly TV presenter, 33, and the salsa pro, 25, have set tongues wagging after their intimate performance of The Bodyguard-inspired American smooth on Saturday night.

Each week the show releases the 'secret mic' audio which reveals what was being said on the dance floor.

During the live show’s dancing, viewers notice the professional dancers speaking to their partners, but are unable to hear it thanks to Dave Arch and his wonderful orchestra.

Posting the audio on BBC Strictly's official Instagram, Kai was thrilled with AJ's performance and praised the star for her effortless dance.

Lifting AJ up, the presenter gripped her dance partner's neck in a sweet embrace.

He was then overheard saying: "Aww, I love you!

"I love you so much!"

The Sun revealed that the Married at First Sight: After Show presenter is falling for her dance partner Kai, pals say.

The TV star has “electric chemistry” with the cheeky pro salsa dancer and they are connecting on and off the dance floor, they believe.

Cast and crew are even betting on the pair hooking up. It would see them become the first romance of the series.

Yesterday, AJ posted a picture of newcomer Kai’s six pack on social media.

A Strictly insider said: “Everyone backstage is talking about the sparks flying between AJ and Kai. It’s very passionate and intense whenever they’re together.

“They’re both single and have really hit it off and everyone on the show is saying it’s only a matter of time.

“They’re always laughing and flirting — romance is 100 per cent on the cards.

“Kai is totally AJ’s type. He’s got loads of banter and he’s been blown away by her, too.

“She’s always been really work-orientated and put her career first and now her two worlds have collided.”

AJ has impressed judges and viewers with her dancing, coming top of the leaderboard.

The pair have trained together for up to ten hours a day over the past month.

In last night’s movie-themed show, the pair scored 35 with their The Bodyguard-inspired American smooth.

AJ has admitted to being unlucky in love after throwing herself into TV work, such as Big Brother’s Bit on the Side, ITV2’s Celebrity Karaoke Club, The Voice UK and Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins.

She recently said she has unsuccessfully tried dating apps, adding: “I just don’t meet anyone, aside from TV programmes I’ve done.

“I’m still hoping that I’ll meet my man through a friend. I am a personality girl.

“I like charismatic guys who can take the mickey out of themselves but, when it comes to work, they are focused and they know what they want in themselves and in a partner.”