Serious’s Maisie Smith cuddles up with partner Kai Widdrington as they go to dinner between rehearsals before the tour

EX EastEnder Maisie Smith cuddled up with Serious to Dancing’s expert Kai Widdrington as they ate dinner between rehearsals.

The 20-year-old was announced as AJ Odudu’s last-minute replacement on the upcoming tour and seems to have built a great bond with Kai, 26.

6

6

AJ – who had a romantic relationship with Kai throughout the series – was forced to withdraw after a serious ankle injury.

Masie, who finished second in the competition last year, is happy to fill her performances and has been working hard this past week.

But she took the evening off for a bite to eat and was seen chatting with Kai before heading home.

The star donned a tracksuit, wearing a T-shirt featuring a picture of former contestant Jamie Laing.

Maisie – who dropped out of Tiffany Butcher last year alongside Gorka Marquez – announced she would be joining this month.

She told fans: “So excited to be a part of @bbcstrictly group again on this year’s arena tour – dance to the greats @kaiwidd 🏻 I wish @ajodudu quick recovery 🙏🏼❤️. “

Meanwhile, a heartbroken AJ said: “I am heartbroken that I cannot participate in the Serious tour due to an injury.

“I was hoping for one last dance with Kai, but I obviously had to take my doctor’s advice. I wish my Strict family all the best of luck on the road and I’ll definitely stay there. It’s to cheer them up.”

It was a painful end to AJ’s Serious journey after ligament damage forced her to leave the final after just one day.

When AJ and Kai aren’t on the dance floor, they’re sticking their tongues out at each other with their electrochemistry.

6

6

6

6