Two Strictly Come Dancing professionals suffered injuries at the same time just days before the show's launch, according to reports. Katya Jones and her ex-husband Neil Jones both missed part of rehearsals before returning to the dancefloor.
Injuries hit rehearsals
It is claimed the pair were forced to pull out of recent rehearsals after sustaining injuries. A source told The Sun: "The pro dancers are under the cosh for filming the group dances, which are played throughout the series, and have a hectic schedule."
The source added: "Both Neil and Katya were injured at the same time and there were concerns they wouldn’t be able to recover in time for the series start in two weeks. They were gutted to miss out on the group dances as it guarantees them screen time if they don’t get a partner, which Neil often doesn’t."
The BBC declined to comment when approached.
Return to the dancefloor
Katya and Neil missed some dances but returned to the dancefloor on Friday, when the final pre-recorded group numbers were filmed. They are also set to feature in group dances across the series alongside other professionals, while further group numbers will be recorded in the coming weeks, as in previous years.
Strictly is undergoing a major shake-up this year, with five new professional dancers joining the likes of Amy Dowden and Dianne Buswell. After months of speculation, it was announced that Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly would be replaced by a trio: Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe.
New hosts react
Emma said: "It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years - so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend. It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind - two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long."
She added: "I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter. I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!"
Johannes shared in a statement: "To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined. This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward. To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I’m ready-sequins, nerves, and all...please bear with me. Love Jojo."
Josh added: "Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television. I adore Emma and Jojo and can’t wait to spend my weekends with them. I’ll dust off the penguin costume."
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer on Saturday, September 19.
