Fans of the BBC dance show were surprised as their long-running friendship was uncovered
14:33, 15 Jan 2026Updated 14:50, 15 Jan 2026
Strictly Come Dancing fans have said they 'didn't realise' how long two of the show's professional dancers have known each other, as their long-running friendship was uncovered.
Those famed for being part of the hit BBC One dance show are among those joining in an online trend which is seeing social media users looked back at what they looked like, what they were doing, or what else was happening in 2016, a decade since the year unfolded.
Among them is Kai Widdrington, who fans will recall joined the popular programme back in 2021. The dancer was among those seen competing during the most recent run of Strictly at the end of last year, having been paired with reality star and presenter Vicky Pattison.
But back to now and Kai took to Instagram on Thursday (January 15) with a string of photos taken 10 years ago, which included him performing alongside friend and Strictly co-star Lauren Oakley.
Alongside the post, the 30-year-old wrote: "The 2016 trend [crying laughing face and peace sign emojis]." And it didn't take fans long to respond, especially to the photos of him and Lauren.
@yazgoesracing said: "I hadn’t realised you and Lauren had been besties for that long! I just thought you’d become really fast friends when you joined strictly!" @mazahenry commented: "Love to watch you two dance together." @wendyedgarx echoed: "Love Lauren & you dancing together."
Others, meanwhile, were distracted by Kai's appearance. @karlmdg replied: "You haven’t aged a day Kai! Share your secrets please." @jonesesworld added: "You look exactly the same!"
Meanwhile, Kai is busy preparing to return to the dance floor as he reunites with Vicky for the Strictly Come Dancing Live 2026 tour. The pair recently attended a photo shoot for the upcoming shows alongside fellow touring stars, Lewis Cope, George Clarke, Ellie Goldstein, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and Jimmy Floyd-Hasselbaink and their professional dance partners.
Alongside a picture of her posing in a striking red dress, as well as a glimpse at her pictures with Kai, Vicky commented on Instagram: "Back like we never left... @strictlycomedancinglive COMING SOON!!!!!" And Kai was quick to respond, writing: "Like we never left."