Ashley Banjo hits back after fans slammed message to his ex-wife on her birthday

Ashley Banjo has hit back at fans who slammed him for the message he sent to his ex-wife on her birthday.

In December, Banjo and former partner, Francesca Abbott, announced that they had decided to split up after 16 years together.

The couple got engaged in 2014 and married just a year later in 2015. They also have two children together - Rose, who is three, and Micah, two.

And while they may no longer be together, the two certainly seem to be on good terms, with the choreographer recently wishing her a happy birthday.

michael melia / Alamy Stock Photo

Abbott posted a photo of herself out and about on Instagram, captioning it with: "30… + 6."

And Banjo was one of many who took to the comment section to share their birthday wishes.

"Happy birthday dude." he wrote. While the message was a nice touch, some people called Banjo out for using the casual phrase.

"Dude?? Sore," one person wrote, while a second added: "ouch!!!!"

And the Diversity troupe leader was quick to hit back, writing: "For those of you who wish to comment in outrage. This is what we've called each other for over a decade and a half.

"But your input is very much appreciated."

Abbott then backed him up, adding: "Thanks dude," alongside a heart emoji.

In December, the pair released a joint statement, saying that they had decided to call it quits 18 months prior.

The statement read: "After much thought and consideration we both feel now is the time to share some personal news.

"Nearly 18 months ago we took the decision to separate.

"After being together for over 16 years, since we were teenagers, this is not a decision that has been taken lightly.

LANDMARK MEDIA / Alamy Stock Photo

"It has not been easy and the processing of the situation has not been fast by any means. But we feel that as we approach the new year it is time to share this news with others.

They continued: "Our main focus will always be our beautiful children. Every decision that has been made is to make sure we can continue as a loving family and give the very best of ourselves as parents.

"Raising Rose and Micah in a healthy and happy environment is the most important thing to both of us.

"Sometimes after so many years people just move in different directions, but we do so lovingly and we continue to try and be both the best parents possible and the best of friends to each other.

"We have always been private with our personal lives, so we kindly ask that everyone please continue to respect that privacy.

"We won't be making any further comment on the situation. Thank you, lots of love, Ash and Chess x"

Topics: Celebrity

Callum Jones