Oti Mabuse criticizes AJ Pritchard over past remarks

Oti Mabuse has spoken candidly about ex-colleague AJ Pritchard, saying his personality and public comments about the BBC dance competition "rubbed a lot of people the wrong way."

Mabuse made the remarks during a TikTok Q&A after being asked whether Pritchard should be allowed to compete for a professional role on the American version of the franchise through Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro.

Calling Pritchard "controversial," Mabuse said he had upset many people with both his personality and his criticism of Strictly. 

She specifically referenced comments he made last year suggesting the programme should feature more British professional dancers because it is a British show.

Rejecting that view, Mabuse argued that Strictly has built its success on international talent, as per Daily Mail.

She highlighted current and former professionals including Aljaž Škorjanec, Janette Manrara, Vito Coppola, Nikita Kuzmin, Katya Jones and Vincent Simone as examples of non-British dancers who became fan favorites. 

Moreover, she said the show's global mix is what makes it "beautiful and special."

Despite her criticism, Mabuse said Pritchard should still be free to pursue opportunities in the United States. 

As per the outlet, she suggested the American version of the show "might work out better" for him and wished him success in his audition.

Pritchard, who left Strictly in 2019, has not publicly responded to Mabuse's latest remarks.