Amy Dowden will step in for Delta Goodrem on Strictly Come Dancing's Icons Week, partnering Kai Widdrington after Delta was forced to withdraw with a broken rib.
The news emerged during a conversation between Lorraine Kelly and Vogue Williams on Wednesday's Lorraine. Vogue said the pair are expected to perform to Dolly Parton's Jolene.
Amy's Return After Elimination
Amy and her celebrity partner, Chris Appleton, were the first couple eliminated from the 2026 series, leaving the professional dancer "heartbroken". She will now return for Saturday's performance alongside Kai while Delta rests and recovers.
Delta's absence from Icons Week was confirmed earlier this week. Vogue told Lorraine that the singer had been dancing with a broken rib when she and Kai topped the leaderboard with their salsa.
Delta's Injury and Strictly Rules
"New developments. She actually has a broken rib. But she was dancing with that. Such an incredible dancer. She topped the leaderboard with 33 points, as well, with Kai doing that salsa," Vogue said, reports Wales Online.
Asked whether Delta would be able to continue in the competition, Vogue explained: "She has an out this week. So the rules on Strictly are that if you hurt yourself, you can have one week off."
"So by next Monday, they have to make a decision on whether or not she's able to dance, and if she can't dance by next Monday, then she's out of the competition."
Delta's Heartfelt Statement
When Lorraine asked how the show would fill Delta and Kai's performance slot, Vogue revealed: "Well, you'll be very happy with this. So it's Amy Dowden and Kai."
"But it's good to see her back, but she's going to be dancing with Kai, and supposedly to Dolly Parton's Jolene. I mean, that's going to be so good."
Delta shared her disappointment in an Instagram statement following the announcement that she would miss this week's Strictly.
She said: "I'm absolutely gutted that a rib injury means I won't be able to dance on Strictly this week. I've been loving every second of this experience, so having to sit this out is heartbreaking- especially after the height of Saturday night."
"I can not tell you how much I love being a part of this magical show. I'm going to focus on resting and recovering, and hopefully, I'll be back on that dancefloor very soon."
She added, "Thank you so much to everyone for all the love and support. It's so appreciated."
"I'll be cheering everyone on from the sidelines this week. Sending all my love, Delta xx."
Lorraine airs weekdays at 9.30am on ITV.
