Strictly Come Dancing professional Kai Widdrington stepped in for his partner Delta Goodrem on Friday's It Takes Two, after the Australian singer was forced to withdraw from this weekend's Icons Week with a rib injury.
The BBC confirmed earlier this week that Delta had been advised by doctors to rest, meaning she and Kai would receive a bye through to next week, when it is hoped she will be able to dance again.
Delta's statement on her injury
Delta released her own statement, 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 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 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!"
Kai's update on It Takes Two
Kai appeared on the Strictly spin-off alongside Dani Dyer and Dame Sarah Storey, where presenter Ellie Taylor said: "Let's start with the serious bit. Kai, you're here in lieu of Delta being here, because she's got a poorly rib. Gutting for both of you, I'm sure."
Kai responded: "Yes, gutting, gutting. I'm here representing team Delta Kai. I've been sent, as Delta would say, Captain Kai. I'm off on my duties representing the team."
He then provided an update on Delta, revealing: "I spoke to her today, I've been speaking to her all week, and she's in really good spirits... Even when she's injured, she's still looking fabulous."
Plans for next week
Delta and Kai had planned to pay homage to Olivia Newton-John during Icons Week, but Kai jokingly suggested their Cha Cha might be "cursed". He then disclosed plans for the following week, saying: "I think we're gonna slow it down a little bit next week and ease back into it. But as Delta reminded me today on FaceTime, she was like, 'It always has to be iconic.' So, we have to make it iconic, that's my job now to choreograph it."
The injury announcement sparked quitting fears among supporters, with one person writing on Reddit: "NOOOOOO!! SHE BETTER NOT WITHDRAW!" Another replied: "Please no, I finally get my fav celeb to do the show so hopefully it doesn't end like that." A third commented: "Rib injuries are no joke. I hope she is able to come back but jeez she must be in a lot of discomfort."
Strictly Come Dancing and Strictly: It Takes Two are both available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
