Delta Goodrem was rushed to hospital in "absolute agony" just hours after filming Strictly Come Dancing over the weekend, it has emerged. The 41-year-old pop star topped the leaderboard on Saturday night but announced on Monday that she would miss the upcoming Icons Week after sustaining a rib injury.
It has now been claimed that Delta actually suffered the injury days earlier and made the decision to carry on, despite being in a great deal of pain throughout the show. A source said: "Delta has been pushing herself as far as possible to impress Strictly viewers. A small injury at the start of last week has quickly deteriorated."
Rushed to A&E on Sunday morning
The source added: "On Saturday night, despite putting on a brave face and smiling, she was in absolute agony. Filming didn’t wrap until late Saturday night and she was exhausted. The plan was to go home and get some rest but she could hardly sleep."
"On Sunday morning she was raced to A&E and then spent most of Monday also at the hospital." The insider added that Delta is now resting at home and being looked after by her husband Matthew Copley. Speaking to The Sun, the source said: "Delta is heartbroken. The severity of the situation isn’t lost on her. The clock is ticking and all she can do is rest and pray things work out."
Delta's statement on missing Icons Week
The news of Delta's injury first emerged on Monday's episode of It Takes Two, and it was confirmed that she and her professional partner Kai Widdrington would be missing a week. Delta 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 one out is heartbreaking - especially after the high of Saturday night."
"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 dancefloor 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."
Despite her pain, Delta managed to score a 33 after performing the Salsa to a mashup of Incognito's Always There and the Chaka Khan classic Ain't Nobody.
Strictly statement and support from co-stars
A spokesperson for Strictly Come Dancing 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, who shot to fame on Neighbours as a teenager before achieving success with hits like Innocent Eyes, was supported by her Strictly co-stars when she announced the news on social media. Nancy Xu said: "We waiting for you back with us, recover soon my beautiful girl," and Lauren Oakley said: "Get well soon, can't wait to have you back."
Fans also rushed to the comments section, with one writing: "Hoping you feel better soon and can be back next week - really love watching you and Kai dance." Another said: "The way my heart DROPPED cuz I thought she was gonna have go retire injured from the entire series!!! We love you delta!!! Wishing for a super speedy recovery for you!!"
A third wrote: "Gutted for you Delta. Hopefully it heals up soon and you can get back to dancing," and a fourth said: "Wishing you a speedy recovery Delta and so sorry you won’t get to perform your icons dance."
When Delta, who also represented Australia in Eurovision earlier this year, first joined Strictly, she spoke about her excitement. She said: "I've been incredibly honoured to perform on many different stages throughout my career - from TV, theatre, film sets, to touring my own shows around the world."
"There is, however, one stage I’ve never stepped onto, and that is the ballroom floor! I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can’t wait to get started!" The Mirror has contacted Delta's representatives for comment.
