Strictly Come Dancing contestant Delta Goodrem will not appear in the next live show after sustaining a rib injury, the BBC has confirmed.
Doctors' advice and bye
The singer, who scored the first nine of the series during her week three performance with partner Kai Widdrington, will be absent from Saturday's show. The news was announced on the spin-off programme It Takes Two by Ellie Taylor on Monday, October 12, who read a statement from a Strictly spokesperson.
The statement said: "Due to injury, Delta Goodrem has been advised by doctors to rest and, as a result, will not dance on this weekend's Strictly Come Dancing."
"In line with the rules of the show, Delta and Kai will receive a bye through to next week when it is hoped they will be able to dance again. We wish Delta the very best as she continues her recovery."
Delta's reaction
Delta expressed her disappointment, saying: "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 one out is heartbreaking - especially after the high of Saturday night."
She added: "I cannot 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 dance floor very soon. 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."
Fans show support
Fans took to social media to send messages of support. One admirer posted: "Oh Delta get better soon lovely," while another commented: "Delta has been absolutely carrying this series. Hope she is back next week!"
Another wrote: "Gutted! Going to miss her and Kai dancing!" and one more said: "Absolutely gutted but rest well and you'll be back on that dance floor in no time."
Delta had previously spoken of her excitement ahead of the series, which has already seen the departures of Chris Appleton and Amy Dowden, plus Melanie Walters and Aljaz Skorjanec. She said: "So excited! I feel very much ready to grab my dancing shoes, hit the ballroom, find as much glitter as possible to put on my shoes. I am approaching it with a total open heart, and I am just wanting to learn the new skill set!"
Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two airs weeknights from 6.30pm on BBC Two and iPlayer.
