In an emotional turn of events during Strictly Come Dancing's Blackpool special, drag performer La Voix was forced to withdraw from the competition due to a debilitating foot injury. The 45-year-old entertainer, whose real name is Christopher Dennis, fought back tears as she bid farewell to the hit BBC show.
An Unexpected Exit
La Voix received medical advice that she could no longer continue in the competition after sustaining a foot injury during rehearsals earlier in the week. Appearing in Blackpool during Sunday's results show, the television personality described her Strictly experience as "extraordinary" while addressing her abrupt departure.
"I came into the show as a minority, as a redhead and you've all embraced me wonderfully," she told viewers emotionally. "I cannot thank you enough... this is not how I wanted my journey to end." The performer managed to maintain her trademark humour, joking that "at least it gives someone else in this competition a chance to win."
Partnership and Emotional Tributes
Professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec paid a heartfelt tribute to his partner, reflecting on their unique relationship. "I've been lucky this year. I've made two friends for life," he said. "On Saturdays and Sundays we all laugh with La Voix and from Monday to Friday I had the best time with Chris."
The dancer continued with his characteristic warmth, adding: "I haven't done a single crunch in the past six months but I've got my six pack back, it's amazing. Like Motsi said, 'We all need it'. The world needs more of you. Strictly needed it, you made my life a joy."
La Voix told Aljaž that she would leave Strictly "a braver, happier and such a more confident person." In a touching final moment on the dancefloor, the professional dancer had to scoop La Voix off her feet due to her injury as they said their goodbyes to viewers.
Social Media Statement and Competition Impact
Minutes after the announcement of her exit, La Voix took to Instagram to share her devastation with fans. "I'm absolutely devastated to be withdrawing from Strictly Come Dancing," she wrote. "This isn't the glittering exit I ever imagined, and it breaks my heart to feel like I've let people down."
She continued with her signature blend of humour and sincerity: "My spirit wanted to keep dancing but my foot had other ideas! Thank you for every cheer, every vote and every sparkle of support – it's meant the world to me. This isn't the ending I imagined but I'll cherish this forever."
La Voix's sudden withdrawal meant none of the remaining six couples would be eliminated this week, with scores and votes carrying over to the next round. This marks the third injury-related departure from this series, following former Love Island star Dani Dyer's exit before the first live show in September due to a fractured ankle, and Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis's withdrawal on October 20th after tearing a calf muscle.
Blackpool Spectacular and Returning Stars
The emotional farewell was balanced by spectacular returning performances, most notably from Strictly alumnus Danny Mac. The 37-year-old actor, who competed in 2016 alongside Oti Mabuse, joined Ashley Roberts (44), Layton Williams (31), and Jay McGuiness (35) for a special Blackpool week performance.
Danny Mac particularly captivated viewers as he danced his famous Samba in an undone sheer shirt that showcased his impressive physique. Fans immediately took to social media to declare him "robbed" of the Glitterball trophy during his original series, where he lost out to Ore Oduba and Joanne Clifton.
The group performance featured elements of each star's most memorable routines, including Jay and Ashley's iconic Jives, Danny's celebrated Samba, and Layton's showstopping Quickstep. Ashley Roberts expressed her excitement ahead of the show, saying: "I'm so excited and grateful to be back on the shiny floor in Blackpool again."
Danny Mac added: "Dancing in Blackpool was an absolute highlight of my time on Strictly. To be heading back up to The Tower Ballroom once again is as thrilling as it is terrifying, but I can't wait to be reunited with all the wonderful people who make this show."
Leaderboard Standings and Looking Ahead
Elsewhere in the competition, Emmerdale star Lewis Cope and professional partner Katya Jones topped the leaderboard with a perfect score of 40 points for their Charleston. At the other end of the table, EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon placed last with 33 points.
With La Voix's departure, the remaining couples continue their Strictly journey, carrying over both judges' scores and viewers' votes to combine with next week's performances. The competition continues without the vibrant presence of the drag star, whose journey may have ended prematurely but whose impact on the show remains significant.
